Standing, sitting, or lying supine
Lateral to the patient.
In an extended or slightly flexed position of the proximal interphalangeal joint, prevent this from moving.
Place the fingers on the sides of the middle phalanx and possibly also on the posterior surface of the proximal
interphalangeal joint. Pressure from stabilizing fingers on the anterior surface could inhibit
the action of the flexor digitorum profundus.
May I touch your hand? (or point to the demonstrated area).
Now please bend and straighten the last joint of your fingers (or demonstrate).
With the patient relaxed, gently place the fingers around the articulation of the middle phalanges with
the distal phalanges of the fingers. Either guide or demonstrate motions and observe as the patient moves
through distal interphalangeal flexion and extension motions.
VH ñ DIP flexion and extension