Our hands play a vital role in daily activities. When an injury or condition affects your hands, it can make even simple tasks difficult. Hand therapy is a specialized type of rehabilitation that helps restore function, reduce pain and improve mobility in the hands, wrists, fingers and arms.
Hand therapy is a type of physical and occupational therapy that focuses on conditions affecting the hand and upper extremity, including the wrist, forearm, elbow and fingers. It is often recommended after an injury, surgery or the onset of a chronic condition.
Hand therapy may involve:
By using these techniques, hand therapy can help restore movement, reduce pain and support long-term recovery.
Hand therapy is beneficial for people experiencing pain, limited movement or other issues affecting their hands and upper extremities. Common conditions treated with hand therapy include:
If you have any of these conditions, hand therapy may help improve your function and quality of life.
Hand therapy begins with an evaluation to assess your condition and create a personalized treatment plan. Depending on your needs, therapy may include exercises, hands-on techniques, custom splints and other therapeutic methods to promote healing and restore movement.
Hand therapists often work with other health care providers, such as orthopedic specialists and rehabilitation doctors, to ensure a comprehensive approach to care.
Hand therapy can help you recover more fully and regain independence. Potential benefits include:
Whether you’re recovering from an injury or managing a chronic condition, hand therapy can support your recovery and help you get back to daily activities with greater ease.
If you think hand therapy could help you, talk to your health care provider about your options.