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Physical Hand Therapy

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.

What is hand therapy?

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:

  • Strength training
  • Stretching and mobility exercises
  • Joint mobilization
  • Manual therapy
  • Splinting and bracing
  • Adaptive equipment training
  • Scar and wound care
  • Ergonomic education

By using these techniques, hand therapy can help restore movement, reduce pain and support long-term recovery.

Who can benefit from hand therapy?

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:

  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Sprains and dislocations
  • Burns, scars and wounds
  • Joint stiffness and tendon injuries
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Arthritis
  • Nerve injuries (numbness, tingling, weakness)
  • Sports and work-related injuries
  • Repetitive strain injuries (overuse, poor ergonomics)
  • Stroke-related hand and arm issues
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation
  • Amputation and prosthetic training

If you have any of these conditions, hand therapy may help improve your function and quality of life.

How does hand therapy work?

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.

What to expect from hand therapy

Hand therapy can help you recover more fully and regain independence. Potential benefits include:

  • Increased strength and dexterity
  • Improved mobility and flexibility
  • Pain relief and injury prevention
  • Nerve recovery and sensitivity training
  • Enhanced coordination and function

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.

Find a Physical Therapy Location Near You