Tailored rehabilitation for interphalangeal joint rigidity: a case report on novel noninvasive techniques

Background This study addresses the rigidity in extension at the interphalangeal finger joint (IFP), focusing on overcoming “intrinsic dominance” to restore hand functionality. Emphasizing the importance of IFP in hand kinematics, it explores a less invasive rehabilitation strategy, diverging from the continuous motion mobilization system (CMMS) by using a plastic splint and excluding wrist immobilization. Case presentation An 18-year-old student presented with a proximal phalanx fracture of the fourth finger, treated surgically with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. Postoperative stiffness and limited mobility led to a novel rehabilitation approach focusing on restoring flexion and altering the intrinsic flexion pattern. Clinical discussion The custom rehabilitation protocol, including the use of a static ulnar gutter orthosis and targeted exercises, aimed at promoting extrinsic flexion patterns. This approach showed significant improvements in range of motion (ROM) and facilitated a shift from intrinsic to extrinsic flexion patterns, highlighting the effectiveness of a tailored rehabilitation strategy. Conclusion The study underscores the potential of a personalized, less invasive rehabilitation method in managing IFP rigidity, demonstrating substantial improvements in hand functionality and ROM. It calls for further research into the long-term effectiveness and application of this approach in similar clinical scenarios.