The patient is maintained in a safe position or finger gutter splint (depending on the location of the fracture) to be worn between exercises. Active range of motion exercises of all joints are instituted four times a day.
4 weeks (or when clinically stable):
Gentle passive range of motion is instituted as needed.
2 weeks following clinical union:
Dynamic splinting is instituted as needed. Continuous protective splinting is discontinued. Protective splinting is maintained for sports level activities. Electrical stimulation is instituted as needed.
4 weeks after clinical union:
Soft putty resistance exercises are instituted. The patient is released to light work duties to lift less than 25 pounds.
12 weeks (or eight weeks following clinical union):
The patient is returned to full unrestricted activities at work and recreation.