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Joint Contracture Of The 4th Finger C4021504

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

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.

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

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

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

Behavioral and nutritional therapy

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

lifestyle
2

Fourth Finger Extension Exercises

Targeted exercises focusing on the 4th finger to improve extension capabilities and prevent progression of mild contracture.

physical_therapy
3

Dynamic Splinting Program

Progressive splinting using low-load prolonged stretch to gradually improve joint extension while allowing some functional movement.

procedure

Additional treatment options

Topical Anti-inflammatory Therapy

Topical NSAID preparations applied to the affected finger to reduce localized inflammation and discomfort.

medication

Heat Therapy and Wax Treatments

Application of superficial heat or paraffin wax to warm tissues before exercises, improving tissue extensibility and reducing stiffness.

complementary

Serial Range of Motion Assessment

Periodic measurement of active and passive finger motion to objectively track improvement and guide treatment adjustments.

monitoring

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 Joint Contracture Of The 4th Finger C4021504?

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 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.

guideline2022
2

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.

review2021
3

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.

clinical_trial2020
4

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.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Joint Contracture Of The 4th Finger C4021504. 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