Passive thumb abduction
Assisted first-web-space widening
Goal
Targets first-web extensibility to support grasp aperture without heavy loading.
Motion taxonomy (reference)
Also called: thumb web space passive
Muscles — adductor pollicis as passive lengthened tissue, thenar muscles
Tendons — thumb adductor tendon interfaces
Bones / joints — first metacarpal, thumb CMC joint, thumb MCP joint
Indexed benefits: increases web-space mobility · reduces thumb tightness · supports pinch
Common contexts: passive ROM · thumb mobility · web-space tightness
Best for
- Web-space contracture
- Pinch prep when opening is limited
Default dose
6 reps • 12s hold • 2×/day
Avoid when
- Healing first web scar without clearance
Measurement targets
- Comfortable spread angle
Setup
- Forearm supported; palm up or resting on a towel roll.
Steps
- 1Use the opposite hand to spread the thumb away from the index ray.
- 2Hold a mild stretch in the web.
- 3Release slowly.
Cues
- Thumb metacarpal stays stable.
- No sharp CMC pinch.
Common mistakes
- Forcing radial deviation at the wrist instead of true abduction.
Stop if you feel
Stop rules
- Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)
- Increasing swelling during or after
- New or worsening numbness or tingling
- Color change in fingers (pale, blue, red)
- Wound opens, drains, or feels hot
- Next morning is worse than the day before
Progressions
- Tiny active holds into the new range if cleared.
Regressions
- Shorter holds; less spread.
What to do next — not a dead end
Suggestions use body region, goal, motion type, and allowed phases — not your medical record. After surgery or a flare, follow your clinician first.
~2–5 min as a focused practice block
6 reps · 12s hold · 2×/day
None required — table or bodyweight only.
Phases 1, 2, 3, 4
Generally lower load — still respect pain and swelling.
Next best movements
Later phase or richer progression when you are ready.
Prerequisite / gentler lane
Same region and intent — usually earlier phase or lower risk.
Commonly paired with
Different primary goal, same region — typical mixed sessions.
Keep momentum without overdoing it
Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.