Hand Rehabilitation

What is hand physical therapy?

Hand physical therapy is focused on treating conditions affecting the hands and upper extremities. The goal of physical therapy and hand rehabilitation is to restore the functionality, strength, and mobility of the hand, wrist, and arm, which may be affected due to injuries, surgeries, chronic conditions, or other causes. Here are some important features of hand physical therapy:

Targeted Treatments:  Hand therapy targets specific conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, fractures, tendon injuries, arthritis, and post-surgical recovery.

Range of Techniques: Physical therapists use certified hand therapy exercises, stretching, manual therapy, and sometimes specialized equipment to improve movement, strength, and coordination.

Pain Management: It helps manage pain through therapeutic exercises using modalities like heat, cold, and ultrasound therapy.

Education and Prevention: Hand specialists educate patients on how to prevent future injuries and manage chronic conditions.

Functional Training: Our Release PT hand specialists focus on restoring the ability to perform daily functions like gripping and lifting to more complex movements.

What does a hand therapy session typically involve?

Each hand therapy session is developed for each patient’s needs and recovery goals and involves these steps to treat their issues: 

• Assessment:  Our hand specialist evaluates your hand’s condition, including strength, flexibility, and functionality.
• Pain Management: Techniques like ice, heat, or ultrasound may be used to manage pain.
• Exercises: You’ll perform exercises to improve movement, strength, and dexterity.
• Manual Therapy: This includes hands-on techniques for joint mobilization and improving soft tissue function.
• Home Exercise Plan: You’ll likely receive exercises to do at home to aid recovery.
• Education: Our Release PT hand therapists provide advice on injury prevention and ergonomic use of your hands in daily activities.
• Monitoring Progress:  Adjustments to the therapy plan are made based on your progress.

Conditions Treated by Hand Therapy

Hand therapists use specialized techniques to improve hand function, reduce pain, and prevent future injuries. At Release PT we treat the following  hand and upper extremity conditions including:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Nerve compression in the wrist causing pain and numbness.
• Tendonitis: Inflammation of tendons due to overuse or strain.
• Fractures: Rehabilitation following broken bones in the hand or wrist.
• Arthritis: Managing pain and maintaining function in affected joints.
• Trigger Finger: Treatment for fingers that catch or lock in a bent position.
• Tendon Injuries: Including repairs after cuts or tears.
• Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: Recovery following surgeries like joint replacement or nerve repairs.
• Dupuytren’s Contracture: Treatment to improve finger motion when tendons thicken.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries: Addressing issues from repetitive motions, like typing or assembly work.
• Sports Injuries: Rehabilitation for injuries acquired during sports activities.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for Hands 

Physical therapy for hands provides a multitude of benefits for those recovering from injuries, surgeries, or managing chronic conditions. Overall, hand physical therapy at Release PT is important for restoring hand health, improving the ability to perform tasks, and improving overall quality of life. Benefits are:

• Improved Functionality: Restores hand function, improving grip strength, dexterity, and coordination.
• Pain Reduction: Effectively reduces pain through therapeutic exercises and pain management techniques like massage or heat therapy.
• Increased Range of Motion: Helps in regaining and improving flexibility and movement in the fingers, hand, and wrist.
• Injury Prevention: Educates on ergonomic practices and exercises to prevent future injuries or strain.
• Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: Aids in faster and more effective recovery post-surgery, ensuring proper healing and reducing the risk of complications.
• Managing Chronic Conditions: Offers strategies and exercises to manage symptoms of chronic conditions like arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Customized Treatment: Tailors therapy to patient needs and conditions with personalized care.
• Non-Invasive Approach: Provides a non-surgical option to manage and treat hand conditions.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: By improving hand functionality and reducing pain, physical therapy helps in performing daily activities more comfortably and efficiently.

How do you know when you should go see a physical therapy hand specialist?

Consider visiting a Release PT physical therapy hand specialist if you’re experiencing persistent pain, aching, or discomfort in your hand, wrist, or forearm not relieved by rest or basic home care. If you’ve had an injury such as a fracture, sprain, or cut or difficulty with hand movements, including gripping, pinching, or wrist flexibility, these need evaluation from a hand therapist. If you’re recovering from hand or wrist surgery, a hand therapist can help with rehabilitation and restoring function.

Visit a hand physical therapist for symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness, indicating conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Hand therapy is also beneficial for chronic issues like arthritis or tendinitis. Noticeable swelling, deformity, or functional limitations in the hands, as well as difficulty in daily tasks, signal the need for a hand specialist. Release PT hand specialists provide targeted treatment for effective recovery and prevention of further complications.

What should I expect during a hand therapy session?

In a hand therapy session at Release PT,  you can expect a detailed assessment of your hand’s function and condition. Our hand therapist will guide you through specific exercises targeting strength, flexibility, and mobility. Pain management techniques like ice, heat, or ultrasound may be used. Manual therapy including massage and joint mobilizations are sometimes part of the session. Education on hand care, ergonomic advice, and home exercises are typically provided. If necessary, our therapist will recommend assistive devices. Sessions are personalized, focusing on your specific recovery goals and addressing any concerns or discomfort you may have.

How long does hand physical therapy take to work?

The timeline for hand physical therapy to show results varies, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the injury’s severity, the specific condition being treated, and your individual response to therapy. Consistent participation and adherence to prescribed exercises greatly influence the recovery timeline.

Is hand therapy painful?

Hand physical therapy may involve some discomfort during exercises and stretches for mobility and strength in injured or post-surgical areas. However, it isn’t overly painful. Release PT therapists focus on managing pain within each patient’s tolerance, adapting techniques to reduce discomfort and aid recovery. Open communication with your therapist is crucial for the best results for healing.

What are the side effects of hand therapy?

Hand physical therapy is safe and beneficial, but like any treatment, can have some side effects as your body adjusts to the therapy. These include temporary discomfort at the start of therapy, muscle soreness post-sessions, fatigue in hand and arm muscles after exercises, occasional swelling, stiffness after inactivity, and potential skin irritation from tapes or equipment. Discuss side effects with your Release PT hand therapist so they can make adjustments to your therapy plan and make it more comfortable for you.

How frequently should I get hand physical therapy treatment?

The frequency of hand physical therapy will be based on your condition’s severity, recovery stage, and therapy goals. Typically, it ranges from several times a week to weekly, with adjustments made as you progress. Regular assessment and communication with your Release PT hand physical therapist are essential for determining the most effective frequency for your condition.