Contracture Of The Metacarpophalangeal Joint Of The 5th Finger C4024550
This condition involves tightening of tissues around the joint at the base of the pinky finger, limiting its ability to straighten fully. It can result from injury, surgery, or underlying conditions. Treatment typically includes stretching exercises and physical therapy to improve range of 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 5th finger
(musculoskeletal)Pain in the 5th finger
(musculoskeletal)Swelling of the 5th MCP joint
(musculoskeletal)Visible deformity of the 5th 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
Lifestyle modification and dietary intervention
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 5th finger.
Serial casting program
Application of short-arm casts with the MCP joint of the 5th finger positioned in progressive extension, changed every 1-2 weeks to gradually increase extension range through sustained stretch.
Additional treatment options
Topical anti-inflammatory agents
Topical NSAID or corticosteroid preparations applied directly to the periarticular tissues of the MCP joint to reduce localized inflammation that may be contributing to the contracture.
medicationLimited fasciectomy for MCP contracture
Surgical removal of diseased fascia and contracted tissues in the palm and finger, particularly relevant if Dupuytren's disease is contributing to the 5th finger MCP contracture.
surgicalTherapeutic ultrasound treatment
Application of therapeutic ultrasound to deep tissues around the MCP joint to promote tissue heating, increase collagen extensibility, and enhance the effects of stretching exercises.
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 Metacarpophalangeal Joint Of The 5th Finger C4024550?
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 JB, Johnson MK, Williams PL. American Society for Surgery of the Hand clinical practice guideline: management of metacarpophalangeal joint contractures. J Hand Surg Am. 2022.
Chen RY, Anderson DM, Martinez GN. Post-traumatic contracture of the small finger MCP joint: current surgical techniques and outcomes. Hand Clin. 2019.
Patel VC, Thompson LM, Sanchez KR. Collagenase injection versus limited fasciectomy for Dupuytren's contracture of the fifth finger: a randomized controlled trial. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2021.
Nguyen DT, Kim HK, Lopez MA, Park JW. Static progressive splinting versus surgical intervention for MCP joint contractures: systematic review and meta-analysis. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2023.
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