COMMON FLEXOR & EXTENSOR TENDON INJURIES OF THE WRIST AND HAND

Course Overview

Master the fundamentals and clinical management of wrist and hand tendon injuries with this specialized course, led by internationally recognized Certified Hand Therapist Dr. Leah Venard. Designed for physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and hand specialists, this course delivers focused insights into common flexor and extensor tendon pathologies—equipping you with the skills to assess, diagnose, and treat complex tendon dysfunctions effectively.

From anatomical zones of injury and deformities like mallet finger and boutonnière, to overuse conditions such as trigger finger and De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, each module offers practical, evidence-based strategies that can be implemented in real clinical settings. Whether you're managing acute trauma or chronic dysfunction, this course will deepen your clinical reasoning and enhance your therapeutic approach.

Chapters & Learning Objectives

Chapter 1: Zones of Tendon Injury and Mallet Finger

: 00:14 Hour

This foundational chapter introduces the extensor tendon zone classification system, crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. You'll learn how mallet finger—a common sports injury resulting from forced flexion of the DIP joint—fits into Zone I injuries. The chapter also walks through splinting timelines, complications like extensor lag, and criteria for surgical referral. Ideal for therapists seeking a structured approach to acute fingertip extensor injuries.

Chapter 2: Boutonnière Deformity

: 00:11 Hour

Explore one of the most misunderstood yet critical deformities of the finger: boutonnière. This chapter breaks down how disruption of the central slip leads to PIP flexion and DIP hyperextension. You’ll learn to differentiate between acute and chronic presentations, understand deformity progression, and implement early-stage intervention strategies such as static and dynamic splinting. It also highlights when to transition to surgical care or advanced hand therapy techniques.

Chapter 3: Radial Styloid or De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

: 00:21 Hour

Focused on inflammation of the first dorsal compartment, this chapter covers the clinical nuances of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis—a common condition in new mothers, manual laborers, and athletes. Learn the pathophysiology behind APL and EPB tendon irritation, and how to confirm diagnosis using Finkelstein’s tests. The chapter also outlines conservative treatment plans including wrist/thumb stabilization, activity modification, tendon gliding techniques, and modalities

Chapter 4: Trigger Finger and Swan Neck Deformity

: 00:12 Hour

This chapter examines both dynamic (trigger finger) and static (swan neck) tendon dysfunctions. Trigger finger, caused by stenosing tenosynovitis of the flexor tendon sheath, is dissected from early symptoms to advanced locking stages. Swan neck deformity, often associated with systemic conditions like RA, is explored through its biomechanical pathway, with guidance on orthotic correction and joint protection education.