Hand Therapy

What is Hand Therapy?

Hand therapy is a non-surgical treatment for injuries and conditions of the upper limb, including the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder girdle. It is a combination of occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) techniques to help patients: regain function, prevent dysfunction, reverse the progression of disease, and participate in daily life.

Symptoms that may indicate need for hand therapy

Pain, stiffness, or swelling, in the hand, wrist, or arm
Decreased range of motion in the hand, wrist, or arm
Numbness or tingling in the hand, wrist, or arm
Weakness in the hand, wrist, or arm
Difficulty with everyday activities like brushing teeth or opening jars
Pain or discomfort, even when you rest your hand
Persistant pain and stiffness when you begin an activity
A weak grip, or difficulty holding and object
Loss of muscle tone in hand
Your symptoms do not improve with rest

About Hand Therapy

Hand therapists can develop a personalized treatment plan to help reduce pain and improve function. They can use techniques like edema management, nerve gliding exercises, job-specific/work stimulating activities, pain reduction modalities, and custom orthotic fabrication.

Techniques

Exercise, splinting, wound care, scar management, retraining, joint mobilization, stretching, ultrasound, compression therapy, and electrical stimulation