Isabel introduces key concepts of flexor tendon rehabilitation. She explains the benefits of early active mobilization and provides guidance for this according to the phase of tendon healing. She explains how to find the balance between minimizing adhesions and preventing tendon rupture. She explains the danger of place-and-hold exercises, and shows how to decide when to progress the exercise programme. She provides guidance on what to do when other structures, such as wrist flexor tendons and nerves, are also injured.

Hannarie provides us with hope and confidence for approaching ‘old’ flexor tendon injuries that have been referred late after repair. She shows us that we do not need to panic, and explains how to work with what the patient has and progress slowly and systematically. She reminds us not to overwhelm patients with exercises when providing home exercise programmes, and encourages us to always allow the patient to show how they are doing the exercise in order to ensure that they understand and can perform it correctly. She gives many practical tips and activity ideas to make sure that we retain a focus on patient’s ability to use their hands functionally – rather than a focus on perfection!