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Exercise handout — move better, feel better.
Putty Pinch
Pinch therapy putty with different grips. Key pinch (thumb to side of index) and tip pinch (thumb to fingertip). Important for fine motor tasks.
Stop if
Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.
This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.
- Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
- Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.
Equipment needed
- Works at home
none
Home Options
- therapy putty or hand gripper
Dosage
2
Sets
12
Reps / Time
30 sec
Rest
pinch 2 seconds
Tempo
Step-by-Step Guide
Set up
- Roll putty into small cylinder
- Hold in front of you
- Keep wrist neutral
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 1 of 5
Do key pinch - thumb presses against side of index finger
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 2 of 5
Squeeze the putty between your thumb and the side of your index finger
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 3 of 5
Release and reform putty
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 4 of 5
Do tip pinch - thumb presses to fingertip
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 5 of 5
Repeat each style for prescribed reps
Breathing
- Breathe normally
- Stay relaxed
Form Cues
- Pinch firmly
- Hold 2 seconds
- Release slowly
- Try all fingers
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using only thumb and index
- Rushing
- Bending wrist
- Pinching too hard if painful
Safety Information
CAUTION if De Quervain's - keep light and pain-free.
Progressions
Stiffer putty, more reps
Regressions
Softer putty, fewer reps
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Printed from clapmove.com. ClapMove is not a replacement for professional medical advice — always consult a healthcare provider before starting any exercise program.