Hand therapy is a highly specialized form our physical therapy program at the Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute in Fort Worth. Hand therapy is exactly what it sounds like—physical therapy directed at rehabilitating conditions and injuries that affect the hands (as well as the wrist and upper extremities). A hand therapist is an occupational therapist or physical therapist who has undergone advanced study and often has an advanced certification as a certified hand therapist (CHT). Hand therapists have specialized knowledge of upper extremity function and specialized skills for assessment and treatment. In truth, hand therapy is a bit of a misnomer, as hand therapists tend to treat injuries that involve the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder. Often, hand therapists treat conditions that hinder activities of daily living, such as buttoning a shirt or opening a container.
When is Hand Therapy Necessary?
Hand therapy is necessary for a variety of conditions, including trauma, burns, or chronic problems such as arthritis. The hands are fundamental to performing activities of daily living; therefore, hand therapy may be necessary for any condition that impacts an individual’s ability to be independent and perform these activities. Some of the conditions that may require hand therapy include:
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Sports injuries or other trauma
- Fractures of the wrist, hand, or fingers
- Injured tendons or nerves
- Amputations of the fingers, hands, or arms
- Elbow injury or dislocation
-
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Arthritis
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Tennis elbow
- Tendonitis
- Bicipital tendonitis
- Dupuytren’s Disease
- Entrapment syndromes
- Overuse injuries
- Myofascial pain
- Epicondylitis
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- Complex regional pain syndrome
- Bone spurs at the elbow
- Neurologic conditions (such as stroke)
- Joint replacements of the hand, wrist and elbow
What Does Hand Therapy Involve?
Hand therapists work with patients to prevent injury or impairment and restore functional activity. They often work very closely with orthopedic surgeons to ensure optimal outcomes. Hand therapy may involve a variety of components:
- Pain management
- Range of motion exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Desensitization following nerve injury or trauma
- Function and sensory re-education
- Management of swelling
- Wound care
- Joint protection principles
- Splinting
- Home exercise programs to increase motion, dexterity, and strength
- Training and adaptations for daily life skills
- Training for return to work, including computer ergonomics
During hand therapy, patients can expect to perform physical exercises. Some hand therapists also use electrical muscle stimulation and other modalities to increase the effectiveness of treatment.
Outcomes of Hand Therapy
The length of rehabilitation required for hand therapy varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the patient’s goals. Most patients can expect:
- Decreased pain
- Improved range of motion
- Improved strength
- Improved coordination
- Improved sensation
- Return to regular activity
If you have suffered a hand injury requiring a hand physical therapy specialist are ready to choose a team of hand, wrist and elbow orthopedic and sports medicine specialists that offer state-of-the-art treatment and highly personalized care, contact the OSMI office or call 817-529-1900 today!
