Differential Tendon Gliding

Differential tendon gliding can help reduce hand swelling by creating mobility in the hand. The technique works by isolating specific tendons and practicing movements that bias one tendon, both tendons together, or the intrinsic muscles. A full fist trains the flexor digitorum superficialis and flexor digitorum profundus to move effectively as a group. The primary goal of differential tendon gliding is to ensure tendons continue to slide and glide effectively during surgical recovery. Differential tendon gliding is indicated following flexor tendon surgery or surgery on the volar aspect of the hand. Tendons need to learn both independent gliding and coordinated gliding together, which is why a combined full-fist exercise is included.