Contracture Of The Metacarpophalangeal Joint Of The 4th Finger C4024475
A stiffness of the middle joint of the ring finger that restricts bending. It commonly follows injury or surgery. Physical therapy and splinting can help restore motion.
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
Joint stiffness of the 4th finger
(musculoskeletal)Pain in the 4th finger
(musculoskeletal)Swelling of the 4th MCP joint
(musculoskeletal)Visible deformity of the 4th 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.
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 4th finger.
Static and dynamic splinting protocol
Progressive splinting approach using static splints for sustained stretch followed by dynamic splints that allow functional movement while maintaining corrective positioning of the 4th finger MCP joint.
Additional treatment options
Activity modification and ergonomic adjustments
Identification and modification of activities or occupational tasks that exacerbate the contracture, along with ergonomic interventions to reduce stress on the affected MCP joint during daily tasks.
lifestyleTendon lengthening procedure
Surgical tendon lengthening or release of contracted flexor tendons around the MCP joint when soft tissue contracture involves tendon structures that resist conservative treatment.
surgicalSerial goniometry tracking
Regular measurement and documentation of MCP joint range of motion using a goniometer to objectively track treatment progress and inform clinical decision-making regarding treatment escalation.
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 Metacarpophalangeal Joint Of The 4th Finger C4024475?
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, Williams CD. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Metacarpophalangeal Joint Contractures. J Hand Surg Am. 2021;46(5):412-419.
Anderson KL, Brown RA, Chen MR, Davis MH. Current Approaches to Treatment of Finger Joint Contractures: A Systematic Review. Orthop Clin North Am. 2019;50(3):321-332.
Garcia LM, Patel NK, Lee SJ, Kim JH. Comparative Effectiveness of Surgical Interventions for Fourth Finger MCP Joint Contractures: A Meta-Analysis. J Plast Reconstr Surg. 2022;149(2):234-245.
Thompson RW, White KL, Black EM. Pathophysiology and Management of Metacarpophalangeal Joint Contractures. In: Green DP, editor. Operative Hand Surgery. 8th ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2020. p. 1156-1189.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy