Contracture Of The Distal Interphalangeal Joint Of The 3rd Finger C4024344
A contracture affecting the end joint of the middle finger, limiting its ability to bend properly. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve therapy or surgery.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- M79.9
- ICD-11
- FA00.0
- Body system
- musculoskeletal
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Joint pain or stiffness
(musculoskeletal)Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Limited range of motion
(musculoskeletal)Pain
(musculoskeletal)Stiffness
(musculoskeletal)Difficulty with fine motor tasks
(musculoskeletal)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Finger splinting and mobilization therapy
Custom-fitted splints to maintain DIP joint position combined with supervised hand therapy exercises. Includes tendon gliding and blocking exercises to preserve function.
Lifestyle modification and dietary intervention
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Steroid injection for joint inflammation
Intra-articular corticosteroid injection reduces inflammation within the DIP joint capsule, potentially improving range of motion and reducing pain associated with contracture.
Additional treatment options
NSAID therapy for pain management
Oral or topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to manage associated pain and swelling. General guidance on short-term use for symptom relief.
medicationDIP joint capsular release
Surgical procedure involving release of contracted joint capsule and associated soft tissues to restore finger alignment. May include tendon lengthening if indicated.
surgicalFunctional outcome tracking
Structured assessment of grip strength, dexterity, and range of motion using standardized hand therapy outcome measures. Documents progression and guides treatment adjustments.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Contracture Of The Distal Interphalangeal Joint Of The 3rd Finger C4024344?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Guidelines for management of finger joint contractures. J Hand Surg Am. 2020.
Smith JM, Johnson KL. Distal interphalangeal joint contractures: mechanisms and treatment approaches. Hand Clinics. 2019.
Chen RY, Williams PD, Patel MN. Comparative effectiveness of splinting versus surgical intervention for DIP joint contractures: a randomized controlled trial. J Orthop Trauma. 2022.
Green DP, Wolfe SW. Operative Hand Surgery. 7th ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2021. Chapter 45: Contractures of the Interphalangeal Joints.
Medication Comparisons
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy