You use your hands all day, every day for work, leisure and recreation, to care for yourself and others. You use your hands to express yourself. What you do with your hands is what makes you different from every other person.
Your hands are an extremely complex part of your body, more so than any other joint, and that allows for a wider range of function. Losing the use of your hands can be frustrating and overwhelming.
That is why it is important that you receive the best possible care for your hands following an injury, surgery or any other condition that can affect those activities that are important and meaningful to you.
What is Hand Therapy?
Hand therapy addresses conditions of the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder.
The goal of hand therapy is to regain as much function, strength, motion and coordination as possible following an injury, surgery or disease.
Hand therapy is a type of rehabilitation that is performed by a provider who has a high degree of specialization that requires extensive continuing education and advanced certification. This high degree of knowledge of the intricate anatomy and rehabilitation of the hand enables the therapist to maximize your recovery and return to a functional lifestyle. They work closely with physicians and clients to provide excellent continuum of care.
What Will Hand Therapy Involve?
Hand specialists use the latest techniques in hand rehabilitation. Various types of exercise equipment may be used for a range of motion and strengthening. Hand therapists are also skilled in the fabrication of customized splints (orthotics) using low temperature moldable materials.
Benefits of Hand Therapy
Receiving hand therapy from a physical therapist can offer a range of benefits. Here are some of them:
- Customized Treatment: A physical therapist can develop a customized treatment plan tailored to the specific needs and goals of the individual, based on their unique condition, medical history, and lifestyle.
- Pain Management: Hand therapy can help relieve pain and discomfort caused by hand or wrist injuries, arthritis, or other conditions.
- Improved Range of Motion: Physical therapists use exercises and other techniques to improve range of motion, flexibility, and strength in the hand, wrist, and arm.
- Better Functionality: Hand therapy can help improve the functionality of the hand, wrist, and arm, making it easier to perform daily activities, such as dressing, eating, and writing.
- Faster Recovery: With hand therapy, individuals may experience a faster recovery time following an injury or surgery.
- Reduced Need for Surgery: In some cases, hand therapy can help avoid the need for surgery or reduce the severity of the surgery required.
- Education and Prevention: Physical therapists can provide education and advice on how to prevent future injuries or conditions, and how to maintain optimal hand and wrist health.
