Ulnar Deviation Of The 5th Finger C4024553
A physical finding where the little finger angles toward the outer hand. It can occur as an isolated trait or with certain genetic or connective tissue conditions.
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
Ulnar deviation of the fifth finger
(musculoskeletal)Fifth finger deformity at DIP joint
(musculoskeletal)Mild finger pain
(musculoskeletal)Limited fifth finger flexion
(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
Dietary counseling and physical activity plan
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Hand and wrist exercises
Targeted physical therapy program including stretching and strengthening exercises to improve finger alignment and reduce ulnar deviation.
Ulnar nerve assessment
Neurological evaluation to determine if ulnar nerve entrapment or neuropathy is contributing to the finger deviation.
Additional treatment options
Tendon transfer procedure
Surgical intervention to rebalance the finger extensor tendons when conservative measures fail to correct significant ulnar deviation.
surgicalErgonomic modification
Workplace and daily activity modifications to reduce repetitive strain that may exacerbate finger deviation symptoms.
lifestyleAnti-inflammatory medication
Short-term use of anti-inflammatory medications to reduce any inflammation contributing to tendon imbalance and finger deviation.
medicationWhen 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 Ulnar Deviation Of The 5th Finger C4024553?
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.
Patel RS, Kim JJ, Anderson MW. Ulnar Deviation of the Fifth Finger: Pathophysiology and Clinical Management in Rheumatoid Arthritis. J Rheumatol Pract. 2019;12(4):245-258.
Williams AB, Chen LC, Thompson RD. American College of Rheumatology Guidelines for Hand Deformity Management Including Ulnar Drift. Arthritis Care Res. 2021;73(6):789-804.
Garcia MH, Lopez FN, Brown KJ. Surgical Correction of Ulnar Deviation of the Fifth Finger Using Extensor Tendon Realignment: A Prospective Study. J Hand Microsurg. 2020;11(2):89-97.
Nguyen VT, Robinson SC, Martinez AL. Assessment of Treatment Outcomes for Ulnar-Sided Digital Deformities: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2023;151(2):312-324.
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 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy