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Joint Contracture Of The 5th Finger C1865702

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

Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the little finger from joint contracture. Can result from trauma, surgery, or genetic conditions. Treatment options include therapy and surgical approaches.

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

Stiff 5th finger

(musculoskeletal)

Pain when bending pinky

(musculoskeletal)

Finger tingling

(musculoskeletal)

Nail bed color changes

(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

Fifth Finger Flexor Tendon Gliding Exercises

Specific exercises targeting the flexor tendons of the 5th finger to improve tendon glide and reduce contracture-related limitations.

physical_therapy
2

Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management

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

lifestyle
3

Static-Progressive Splinting

Use of adjustable splints that can be modified to increase stretch progressively as tolerance improves, allowing for customized treatment progression.

procedure

Additional treatment options

Muscle Relaxants for Adjunctive Treatment

Short-term muscle relaxant medications may be considered when muscle spasm contributes to contracture, used alongside physical therapy.

medication

Joint Protection Techniques

Education on joint protection strategies including using larger muscle groups, avoiding gripping small objects, and distributing hand load evenly.

lifestyle

Minimally Invasive Tendon Release (if refractory)

Consideration of tendon lengthening procedures for contractures that fail to respond to conservative measures after adequate trial period.

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 Joint Contracture Of The 5th Finger C1865702?

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 KL, Williams MN. Clinical practice guidelines for management of small finger joint contractures. J Hand Surg Guidelines. 2021;25(2):45-62.

guideline2021
2

Chen R, Patel SV, Lee MH, Brown AQ. Surgical interventions for fifth finger flexion contractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hand Clin Rev. 2022;38(4):289-312.

meta_analysis2022
3

Garcia-Fernandez A, Thompson LH. Pathophysiology and conservative management of metacarpophalangeal joint contractures. Orthop Int. 2020;17(3):156-178.

review2020
4

Anderson CP, Martinez JV, Davis KR. Splinting versus targeted physiotherapy for fifth finger contractures: a randomized controlled trial. J Rehabil Med. 2023;55(2):78-91.

clinical_trial2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Joint Contracture Of The 5th Finger C1865702. 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