An intrinsic plus position is described by which joint configuration?

An intrinsic plus position is described by which joint configuration?

• A. MCP extension, IP extension
• B. MCP flexion, IP flexion
• C. MCP flexion, IP extension
• D. MCP extension, IP flexion

Answer: (B)

Intrinsic plus position is the hand posture where the knuckles (MCP joints) are flexed while the finger joints (PIP and DIP) are extended. This happens because the intrinsic hand muscles (interossei and lumbricals) actively flex the MCP joints and, through their pull on the extensor mechanism, extend the IP joints. Clinically, this position is important because it keeps the intrinsic muscles engaged, supports proper ligament tension, and helps prevent contractures during healing or splinting. If the IP joints were flexed while the MCP joints were extended, that would reflect a different alignment (often referred to as intrinsic minus) and indicates a different balance between intrinsic and extrinsic muscle forces.

Intrinsic plus position is the hand posture where the knuckles (MCP joints) are flexed while the finger joints (PIP and DIP) are extended. This happens because the intrinsic hand muscles (interossei and lumbricals) actively flex the MCP joints and, through their pull on the extensor mechanism, extend the IP joints. Clinically, this position is important because it keeps the intrinsic muscles engaged, supports proper ligament tension, and helps prevent contractures during healing or splinting. If the IP joints were flexed while the MCP joints were extended, that would reflect a different alignment (often referred to as intrinsic minus) and indicates a different balance between intrinsic and extrinsic muscle forces.