Flexor tendon injuries. Treatment of the acute problem.

The management of flexor tendon injuries continues to evolve as our knowledge of tendon biology and physiology improves. The concept of early motion after tendon repair is a key part of this evolutionary process. This section has provided a brief review of the history of early motion and presented a postoperative therapy program for flexor tendon repairs. Patient education, splinting (protective and corrective) and an exercise and activity program have been stressed. It must be emphasized that if early motion is used postoperatively, it must be done in conjunction with a closely supervised hand therapy program.