PIP Arthroplasty — PIP Joint Arthroplasty

University of Virginia Orthopaedic Surgery

Weight-Bearing

NWB surgical UE

Key Restrictions

No resistance strengthening until 8 weeks; PIP flexion typically limited to 80-90° to prevent excessive prosthesis stress; monitor for active PIP extension lag throughout; medial/lateral joint support required; night PIP+DIP extension orthosis to prevent lag and flexion contracture

Timeline & Phases

Phase 1 (0-2 wks): finger splint; Phase 2 (2-6 wks): FO medial/lateral PIP support in full extension full time (with buddy taping for hygiene), tendon glides, joint blocking, intrinsic extension and reverse blocking, dexterity; Phase 3 (6+ wks): buddy straps for medial/lateral protection, PROM for functional PIP flexion (up to 80-90°), dexterity, grip strengthening from week 8; night PIP+DIP extension orthosis continues

Notes

PIP flexion limited to 80-90° to protect prosthesis; night PIP+DIP extension orthosis to prevent extension lag and flexion contracture; buddy taping for medial/lateral protection during ADLs; monitor for active extension lag; DIP may or may not be included in orthosis depending on stability

Published

09/2024