Skip to main content
Movement library
MobilityFingersPhases 1, 2, 3, 4

Tabletop position

Intrinsic-plus position (MCP flexion, IP extension)

Trains intrinsic muscle balance critical for grip and dexterity.

Best for

  • Intrinsic activation
  • Lumbrical and interossei recruitment

Default dose

10 reps • 3s hold • 3×/day

Avoid when

  • MCP joint instability without clearance

Measurement targets

  • Hold time (sec) before fatigue

Setup

  • Forearm supported, palm facing down.

Steps

  1. 1Bend MCP knuckles to 90° while keeping IP joints straight.
  2. 2Hold 2–3 seconds.
  3. 3Return to straight hand.

Cues

  • Make a flat 'tabletop' with your fingers.

Common mistakes

  • IP joints curling.
  • Wrist drifting into flexion.

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

  • Hold tabletop while spreading fingers.

Regressions

  • Smaller MCP angle; build over days.
Continue your rehab

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.

Estimated time

~2–5 min as a focused practice block

10 reps · 3s hold · 3×/day

Equipment

None required — table or bodyweight only.

Rehab stage

Phases 1, 2, 3, 4

Generally lower load — still respect pain and swelling.

When to stop

Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)

Increasing swelling during or after

Full stop rules ↑

Avoid if this sounds like you

MCP joint instability without clearance

Reread best-for context ↑

Guided exercises that use this

Step-by-step sessions that embed this movement pattern.

Keep momentum without overdoing it

Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.

Scaling in plain language: Easier — Smaller MCP angle; build over days. · Harder — Hold tabletop while spreading fingers.Full cues ↑