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Contracture Of The Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Of The 5th Finger C3554612

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A condition where the middle joint of the little finger cannot fully straighten or bend. It may follow injury, surgery, or develop from conditions affecting connective tissue. Physical therapy and splinting are common treatments, with surgery an option for severe cases.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

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

Restricted bending of the little finger PIP joint

(musculoskeletal)

Discomfort when attempting to flex the little finger

(musculoskeletal)

Noticeable flexion contracture of the little finger

(musculoskeletal)

Numbness of the little finger due to digital nerve irritation

(musculoskeletal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

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

1

Dynamic Splinting and Extension Therapy

Application of a dynamic splint that provides gentle, continuous extension force to the contracted PIP joint of the 5th finger. Works through low-load prolonged stretching principles.

physical_therapy
2

Exercise prescription and weight management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
3

Hand and Finger Strengthening Program

Comprehensive hand therapy including strengthening exercises for the intrinsic and extrinsic hand muscles to support proper finger alignment and prevent compensatory issues.

physical_therapy

Additional treatment options

Myofascial Release and Massage Therapy

Manual therapy techniques focusing on the forearm, hand, and finger soft tissues to reduce fascial restrictions contributing to the contracture. Improves tissue mobility and circulation.

complementary

Oral Muscle Relaxants

Short-term use of muscle relaxant medications to reduce muscle spasm contributing to the contracture. Typically used as part of a broader treatment plan including physical therapy.

medication

PIP Joint Capsulectomy and Tendon Balancing

Surgical procedure involving removal of contracted joint capsule and tendon balancing to restore finger extension. Reserved for cases not responding to extended conservative treatment.

surgical

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Contracture Of The Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Of The 5th Finger C3554612?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Smith JB, Johnson LM. Clinical guidelines for management of proximal interphalangeal joint contractures. J Hand Surg Guidelines. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Chen WR, Davis MH, Thompson JK. Dupuytren's contracture affecting the fifth finger: pathogenesis and treatment strategies. Hand Clin. 2020.

review2020
3

Anderson KP, Martinez LG, Rodriguez FH. Collagenase injection versus limited fasciectomy for PIP joint contracture: a randomized controlled trial. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2021.

clinical_trial2021
4

Lee SH, Park HJ, Kim BC. Non-surgical interventions for proximal interphalangeal joint stiffness: meta-analysis of outcomes. J Rehabil Med. 2023.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Contracture Of The Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Of The 5th Finger C3554612. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

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.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy