Dry needling: A tool to address tightness of the interossei?

Tightness of the interosseous muscles of the hand is a frequent complication that may occur after trauma or immobilization, causing significant limitations to motion, strength, and function.1 Though the slender interossei muscle bellies are no longer than the adjacent metacarpal bones to which they attach, it is estimated that they, along with the other ulnar innervated intrinsic muscles, contribute to nearly 40% of overall grip strength.2 Because of their attachment to the extensor hood mechanism, shortening of the interossei limits flexion of the interphalangeal (IP) joints, particularly the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, as oblique fibers insert at the central slip.