Finger Isolation
This isolation stretch, along with massage of the fingers and hands, is very effective for warming up your precious digits. Work through this sequence one finger at a time.
1. Either sitting or standing, bend one arm at the elbow to position your hand palm-up at chest level.
2. Curl your fingers about three-quarters of the way, but do not close your hand or make a fist.
3. Extend your hand into a hand-back position.
4. Place the index finger of your other hand across the last digit of the finger to be stretched, then position your thumb under the finger near your hand knuckle.
5. Gradually apply pressure with your index finger to further close the bent finger and to push it back in the direction opposite to which it flexes. Stop when you feel mild tension in the joints.
6. Hold this stretch for ten seconds. Release the finger for a few seconds and repeat the stretch for another ten to twenty seconds.
7. Repeat this process with all eight fingers.
Stretch bent fingers one at a time.
Safety notes: Stop immediately if you experience any pain. Also, do not use this stretch on a recently injured finger or if you have significant arthritis of the hands.
