Hand Therapy

physical therapy with dumbbell support

Hand therapy focuses on treating conditions affecting the hands and upper extremities.

It is a specialized form of rehabilitation that focuses on restoring and improving the functionality of the hand, wrist, and arm. Hand therapy is designed to help individuals recover from injuries, manage conditions such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome, and optimize outcomes following surgeries. By combining therapeutic techniques, tailored exercises, and targeted interventions, hand therapy aims to increase strength, dexterity, and range of motion while reducing pain and swelling.

Here are some common modalities used for hand therapy:

  • Targeted exercises help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the hands and fingers. 
  •  Hands-on techniques performed by a therapist to mobilize joints, manipulate soft tissues, and alleviate pain. 
  • Therapists often design custom splints to support and protect the hand during the healing process. Splints can help maintain proper alignment, reduce swelling, and prevent further injury.
  • The application of heat or cold can help manage pain and inflammation. Warm compresses or paraffin baths may be used for stiffness, while cold packs can reduce swelling.
  • High-frequency sound waves are used to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation in deep tissues. This modality is often used for conditions like tendonitis.
  • Modalities such as electrical stimulation or TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) can be used to manage pain, reduce muscle spasms, and improve circulation.
  • For individuals with hypersensitivity or pain, therapists may use desensitization exercises to gradually accustom the hand to various textures and pressures.
  • Therapists incorporate daily tasks and activities into rehabilitation to improve functional abilities. This can include tasks such as buttoning clothes, writing, or using utensils.

Call Us Today

This modality is typically only one part of a complete treatment plan that we customize for your specific needs. Give us a call or schedule an appointment to learn how we can incorporate hand therapy into your rehabilitation program.

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