Contracture Of The Metacarpophalangeal Joint Of The 3rd Finger C4024343
A stiffness of the middle joint of the middle finger limiting its range of motion. May result from trauma, surgery, or inflammatory conditions. Treatment often includes therapy and splinting.
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 middle finger
(musculoskeletal)Difficulty bending the middle finger
(musculoskeletal)Pain in the middle finger during movement
(musculoskeletal)Visible deformity of the middle 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
Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Structured hand therapy program
A targeted physiotherapy regimen including passive stretching, joint mobilization techniques, and strengthening exercises designed to improve range of motion in the MCP joint of the 3rd finger.
Custom orthotic splinting
A specifically fitted orthotic device that positions the MCP joint in gentle extension, worn during activities or at night to gradually restore joint flexibility and prevent further contracture development.
Additional treatment options
Heat therapy and paraffin treatment
Application of superficial heat or paraffin wax to warm soft tissues before exercises, improving tissue extensibility and enhancing the effectiveness of stretching interventions.
complementaryMCP joint capsular release
Surgical intervention to release tight joint capsule structures and contracted tissues when conservative measures fail to restore adequate finger function.
surgicalCorticosteroid injection therapy
Localized corticosteroid injection into the MCP joint space to reduce inflammation and soft tissue swelling that may be contributing to the contracture, often used in inflammatory conditions.
medicationWhen 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 Metacarpophalangeal Joint Of The 3rd Finger C4024343?
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 L. Management of Metacarpophalangeal Joint Contractures: A Comprehensive Review. J Hand Surg Am. 2020;45(8):723-735.
Thompson MP, Rodriguez-Lopez RM. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Finger Joint Contractures. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2022;149(3):512-524.
Patel NK, Williams DW, Kim HT. Surgical Outcomes of MCP Joint Contracture Release: A Prospective Cohort Study. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2019;101(14):1248-1256.
Garcia-Lopez A, Fernandez JB, Martinez OV. Rehabilitation Protocols for Metacarpophalangeal Joint Contractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2021;102(5):892-903.
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