After reduction of a finger dislocation with splint immobilization, how many times per day should the splint be removed for range‑of‑motion exercises?

Range of Motion Exercise Frequency After Finger Dislocation Splinting

Remove the splint 2-3 times per day for supervised range-of-motion exercises after the initial immobilization period of 3-6 weeks.

Initial Immobilization Phase

• Continuous splint wear for 3-6 weeks minimum is essential to permit soft-tissue healing and reduce inflammation following finger dislocation reduction 1
• During this initial healing phase, the splint should remain in place continuously without removal for ROM exercises to protect the healing joint structures 1
• This immobilization period allows adequate time for ligamentous and capsular healing before introducing controlled motion 1

Transition to ROM Exercise Phase

After the initial 3-6 week immobilization period:

• Remove the splint 2-3 times per day to perform range-of-motion exercises 2, 3
• Each ROM exercise session should include 2-4 repetitions of each movement 3
• Hold each stretch for 10-30 seconds during the exercise session 2, 3
• The total stretching time should accumulate to 60 seconds per exercise across the repetitions 3

Exercise Technique and Progression

• Stretch to the point of tightness or slight discomfort, but not pain 3
• Perform exercises when the tissues are warmed through light activity or external heat application (such as warm water soaks) 3
• Twice-daily ROM exercises (morning and evening) have demonstrated effectiveness in improving joint mobility in similar conditions 4
• A frequency of 2-3 days per week minimum is required to maintain gains in joint range of motion, though daily exercise provides the greatest benefits 2, 3

Long-Term Splint Management

• After demonstrating adequate healing and ROM improvement, transition the splint to use primarily during aggravating activities and at night if symptoms persist 1
• Custom orthoses worn for ≥3 months have shown beneficial effects on sustained pain relief and function 1
• Continue monitoring for muscle deconditioning with prolonged immobilization, as this is a common complication 1

Critical Monitoring Points

• Discontinue or modify exercises if pain persists >1 hour post-exercise, unusual fatigue develops, or decreased ROM occurs 5
• Watch for skin breakdown with poorly fitted splints during the transition phase 1
• Reassess at 2-week intervals initially to ensure appropriate healing progression 5

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Starting ROM exercises too early (before 3 weeks) risks re-injury and prolonged healing time 1
• Removing the splint too frequently during the initial healing phase compromises soft-tissue repair 1
• Inadequate warm-up before stretching reduces effectiveness and increases discomfort 3
• Stretching into pain rather than mild discomfort can cause setbacks in recovery 3