Joint Contracture Of The 4th Finger C4021504
Reduced flexibility in the ring finger caused by joint contracture. May develop after injury, surgery, or from underlying conditions. Management includes physical therapy and possible surgical correction.
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
Unable to straighten 4th finger
(musculoskeletal)Morning stiffness in hand
(musculoskeletal)Finger discoloration
(musculoskeletal)Hand weakness
(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
Behavioral and nutritional therapy
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Fourth Finger Extension Exercises
Targeted exercises focusing on the 4th finger to improve extension capabilities and prevent progression of mild contracture.
Dynamic Splinting Program
Progressive splinting using low-load prolonged stretch to gradually improve joint extension while allowing some functional movement.
Additional treatment options
Topical Anti-inflammatory Therapy
Topical NSAID preparations applied to the affected finger to reduce localized inflammation and discomfort.
medicationHeat Therapy and Wax Treatments
Application of superficial heat or paraffin wax to warm tissues before exercises, improving tissue extensibility and reducing stiffness.
complementarySerial Range of Motion Assessment
Periodic measurement of active and passive finger motion to objectively track improvement and guide treatment adjustments.
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 Joint Contracture Of The 4th Finger C4021504?
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 JF, Johnson AB, Williams CD. American Society for Surgery of the Hand Clinical Practice Guidelines for Management of Finger Joint Contractures. J Hand Surg. 2022;47(6):523-530.
Chen R, Patel NK, Anderson LM. Surgical and Non-Surgical Approaches to Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Contracture: A Systematic Review. HAND. 2021;16(4):412-425.
Garcia LM, Brown RT, Davis KM. Collagenase Injection for Treatment of Fourth Finger PIP Joint Contracture: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2020;102(18):1589-1598.
Martinez OT, Lee SJ, Kim HP. Physical Therapy Interventions for Joint Contractures: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2023;104(5):765-778.
Medication Comparisons
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy