Information for patients
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What exercises should I do following my PIPJ replacement?
Only complete the exercises advised by your Hand Therapist. These will be progressed when you are ready.
Weeks 0 to 2
Wear your splint full time. Exercise in your splint.
Exercise 1
Bend the tip of your finger up and down.
Repetition: x5
Hold: 5 seconds
Complete: Every 1 to 2 hours
Weeks 2 to 4
Splint to be removed for exercises only.
Exercise 1
Bend your fingers to your palm and then straighten.
Repetition: x5
Hold: 5 seconds
Complete: Every hour
Exercise 2
Use your thumb, index and middle finger of your good hand, to support the middle joint of your operated finger. Then bend the end joint of your finger up and down.
Repetition: x5
Hold: 5 seconds
Complete: Every 1 to 2 hours
Week 4 – onwards
Continue with all exercises. Wear your Splint only at night until 12 weeks. Begin light activities as below.
Light – 4 weeks;
- Washing
- Shaving/Make-up
- Putting on light clothes
- Fastening zips/buttons
- Combing hair Tying shoe laces
- Reading newspaper
- Playing cards
- Using telephone
- Handling money
- Using remote control
- Writing and typing
- Dusting Switching on light switch
When can I return to normal activities?
Your hand is likely to be weak for approximately twelve weeks after the operation and care has to be taken to protect it.
You will be guided by your Hand Therapist as to when you can return to normal activities.
Medium – 8 weeks
- Sweeping up
- Unscrewing jars/tins
- Hanging washing out
- Washing up and wiping up
- Ring pull can opening Using a knife/fork/spoon but not cutting meat
- Holding a pint of liquid or a cup of tea
- Using scissors
- Using a towel
- Opening and closing door handles
- Using key to open door
- Driving
- Putting on socks Reading a book
Heavy – 12 weeks
- Hand washing or wringing out clothes
- Using a knife
- Gardening
- Carrying shopping
- Lifting boxes
- Ironing
- Cooking and lifting pans and kettle
- Making bed
- Vacuuming
- Lifting children
- Lifting heavy objects
- Cleaning car
- Decorating Sport (golf, swimming, gym, cycling, running, football, rugby)
Do I need to take time off work?
Your Hand Therapist will discuss with you when it is appropriate to return back to your normal work and hobbies.
Please speak to your GP if you require a fit note.
The table below details when you may expect to return to work.
| Type of work/activity | Approximate time off |
|---|---|
| Office based | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Driving | 8 weeks |
| Manual work | 12 weeks |
| Contact sport | 12 weeks |
Contact details
Please contact Hand Therapy if:
- You have concerns or questions.
- Your splint is rubbing or is uncomfortable.
North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust
Hand Therapy Team
Telephone: 01429 522471
Monday to Friday, 08:30am to 04:30pm.
You will be asked to attend either:
Hand Therapy
1st Floor, North Wing
University Hospital of North Tees
Hardwick Road
Stockton-on-Tees
TS19 8PE
Or
Physiotherapy Outpatients Department
Ground Floor
University Hospital of Hartlepool
Holdforth Road
Hartlepool
TS24 9AH
Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints
Patient Experience Team (PET)
We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Team is here to try to resolve your concerns. The office is based at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. Our contact details are:
Telephone: 01642 624719
Freephone: 0800 092 0084
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm
Email: [email protected]
Out of hours
Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.
Telephone: 01642 617617
Patient, Public and People with Lived Experience
We are looking for patients to share their experiences of healthcare and to join our Involvement Bank. Working with the patients, carers, families and the general population we support in making decisions about their care can lead to better health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction and a better overall experience. We want to listen and work with you in shaping the future of your healthcare services. To find out more about the Involvement Bank go to our website or contact us at:
Website: www.nth.nhs.uk/about/community/people-with-lived-experience
Email: [email protected]
Data protection and use of patient information
The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.
Telephone: 01642 383551
Email: [email protected]
Privacy NoticesLeaflet feedback
This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team at:
Email: [email protected]
Leaflet reference: PIL1545
Date for Review: September 2027
