Final equilibrium positions for the 9 forward simulations of the models
combining the mild, moderate, and severe changes and a flexed wrist. Red
“+” indicates either the MCP is hyperextended or the PIP is flexed
more than 20 degrees, positive for both indicates the claw finger deformity. As
the wrist is flexed the muscle-tendon lengths of the extrinsic finger flexors
shorten to lengths closer to Lmt,r.
Thus, the passive resistive forces produced by the flexor muscles about the PIP
joint are smaller at 30° wrist flexion than at 30° wrist
extension, allowing the forces produced by the extensor muscles to be more
effective.