Information for patients
This leaflet can be made available in other formats including large print, CD and Braille and in languages other than English, upon request.
What is a Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Replacement?
The proximal interphalangeal joint is the middle joint of each finger. Replacing this joint involves removing the arthritic bone and replacing it with a plastic or metal surface. Several types of replacement are available.
What can I expect after surgery?
- Large cast and bandage for the first few days.
- Swelling and stiffness of the operated finger and hand. This is normal and should reduce over time. Elevating your hand above your heart can reduce this.
- Moderate levels of pain can be expected after surgery.
- An appointment in Hand Therapy within one week of your surgery.
The Hand Therapist will make you a plastic splint which you can only remove for exercises initially. They will teach you these exercises at the first appointment, in order to help you regain the movement of your finger.
In most cases, your Hand Therapist will see you every one to two weeks to check your wound, splint and progress your exercises as needed. Usually, it takes approximately 12 weeks after surgery to be discharged by Hand Therapy and return to full function.
How do I care for my splint?
You will be provided with a plastic splint in order to protect your finger. You may remove your splint to do your exercises, otherwise it must be worn at all times. Your Hand Therapist will guide you, as to when you can begin to remove it for daily activities.
- Keep the splint clean and dry.
- DO NOT try to make alterations to your splint.
- Keep away from sources of heat.
- You may clean the outside with baby wipes/a damp cloth.
How do I care for my scar?
The Hand Therapist will demonstrate and advise you when to start scar massage. This is normally once the wound has healed and is scabbed over. Scar massage is useful as it helps to breakdown the scar tissue. This allows the scar to move more freely and reduces the risk of the scar becoming sensitive.
To complete scar massage
- Apply firm pressure in circular movements along the length of the scar.
- Use non-perfumed cream.
- Complete for 5 minutes at a time at least 4 times a day.
Please do not try your own exercises as this could cause increased pain.
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 sick note.
The table below details when you may expect to return.
| Type of Work/Activity | Approximate Time Off |
| Office based | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Driving | 8 weeks |
| Manual Work | 12 weeks |
| Contact Sport | 12 weeks |
When can I return to normal activities?
Your finger 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.
The table on the following page gives some examples.
| LIGHT (6 weeks) | MEDIUM (8 weeks) | HEAVY (12 weeks) |
| Personal Washing/shaving/make-up Putting on light clothes Fastening zips/buttons Combing hair Tying shoe laces | Domestic Sweeping up Unscrewing jars/tins Hanging washing out Washing up or wiping up Ring pull can opening Using a knife/spoon/fork but not cutting meat | Manual Work Hand washing or wringing out clothes Using a knife Gardening Carrying shopping/lifting boxes Ironing |
| Other Activities Reading newspaper Playing cards Using telephone Handling money Using remote control Writing and typing Dusting Switching on light switch | Other Activities Holding a pint of liquid or a cup of tea Using scissors Using a towel Opening and closing door handles Using a key to open door Driving Putting on socks Reading a book | 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 |
Contact Details
Please contact Hand Therapy if you have any concerns or questions.
Contact details are:
North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust
Hand Therapy Team
Telephone: 01429 522471
Monday to Friday, 08:30 a.m. to 04:30 p.m.
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
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: PIL1553
Date for Review: December 2027