Hand therapy is rehabilitation focused on the upper extremities, including the hands, arms, and shoulders after injury or illness. Your occupational therapist or physical therapist will assess and treat ongoing disease and injury to restore function in your valued activities and prevent further injury and dysfunction.
Common Diagnoses Treated
Hand therapy can be beneficial for a range of orthopedic hand problems, including:
- Fractures in the hand or arm
- Arthritis including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Crush injuries
- Tendon lacerations
- Repetitive Motion Injuries
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Trigger finger
- Tendonitis
- Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining, or membrane)
- Nerve Injuries
Evaluation and Treatment Planning
Evaluations are comprehensive and will help your therapist tailor your treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and goals. Hand therapy may include various interventions including:
- Heat or cold may be used for pain management and/or muscle relaxation
- Manual therapy to improve tissue, joint, scar and nerve mobility
- Therapeutic exercise to develop flexibility, joint stability, and muscular strength
- Neuromuscular re-education
- Splinting
- Pain management strategies
- Body mechanics
- Recommendations for adaptive equipment to help you with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, bathing, eating, and cooking.