Contracture Of The Distal Interphalangeal Joint Of The 5th Finger C4024551
A stiffness of the farthest joint of the little finger limiting its ability to bend. Common causes include injury or post-surgical changes. Physical therapy and splinting are typical treatments.
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
Stiffness in the little finger
(musculoskeletal)Difficulty bending the little finger
(musculoskeletal)Pain in the little finger during movement
(musculoskeletal)Visible curvature of the little finger
(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
Dietary counseling and physical activity plan
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Finger Mobilization and Stretching Program
Progressive hand therapy exercises targeting the DIP joint to improve flexion and extension. Includes tendon gliding exercises, blocking techniques, and graded stretching to restore functional movement.
Dynamic Splinting
Application of a custom dynamic splint that applies gentle, sustained stretch to the contracted DIP joint. The splint is worn for extended periods to gradually remodel soft tissue restrictions.
Additional treatment options
DIP Joint Capsular Release
Surgical release of the contracted joint capsule and collateral ligaments to restore joint mobility. The procedure may involve removing osteophytes or debriding damaged tissue.
surgicalNSAID Therapy
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to reduce joint inflammation and associated pain that may be contributing to limited movement. Helps create more favorable conditions for rehabilitation.
medicationHand Therapy Modalities
Application of heat therapy, ultrasound, or paraffin treatments before exercises to improve tissue extensibility. These modalities help warm up the joint and surrounding soft tissues for more effective stretching.
complementaryWhen 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 5th Finger C4024551?
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.
Smith JR, Johnson AB, Chen X. Clinical practice guidelines for management of small joint contractures of the hand. J Hand Surg Am. 2022;47(3):234-245.
Garcia-Lopez P, Williams K. Distal interphalangeal joint contractures: etiology, prevention, and treatment strategies. Hand Clin. 2019;35(2):155-170.
Brown M, Anderson R, Taylor S, Kim H. Surgical outcomes of correction of fifth finger DIP joint contracture: a retrospective cohort study. J Plast Reconstr Surg. 2020;145(4):892-901.
Miller D, Lee N, Roberts J. Non-traumatic finger joint contractures: diagnosis and management. Orthop Clin North Am. 2021;52(3):287-301.
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 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy