Devon Hand Surgery

Hand Therapy: Supporting Your Recovery and Improving Hand Function

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Hand therapy is a specialised area of rehabilitation that focuses on assessing and treating conditions affecting the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow. It plays a crucial role in helping people regain function, reduce pain, and return to daily activities—whether following surgery or as part of non-surgical treatment.

 

 

What Is Hand Therapy?

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Hand therapy is delivered by experienced physiotherapists or occupational therapists who have additional training in treating upper limb conditions. These therapists work closely with hand surgeons and other healthcare professionals to provide a tailored rehabilitation plan.

 

 

Non-Surgical Management of Hand Conditions

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Many hand and wrist problems can be effectively treated without surgery. Hand therapy is often the first line of treatment and may be recommended for:

 

• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

• Tendonitis (e.g., De Quervain’s tenosynovitis)

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Trigger finger

• Joint stiffness or instability

• Soft tissue injuries (sprains, strains)

• Fractures that are managed conservatively (without surgery)

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What to Expect in Non-Surgical Hand Therapy:

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• Assessment: A thorough evaluation of hand function, strength, pain, and range of motion.

• Exercise Programmes: Custom exercises to improve flexibility, strength, coordination, and reduce pain.

• Splinting/Bracing: Use of custom-made or prefabricated splints to support healing, rest inflamed tissues, or improve alignment.

• Swelling and Scar Management: Techniques to reduce swelling and improve scar mobility.

• Education: Advice on activity modification, pacing, ergonomics, and joint protection strategies.

• Pain Management: Includes manual therapy, desensitisation techniques, and modalities like heat/cold therapy or TENS.

 

Post-Operative Rehabilitation After Hand Surgery

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After hand surgery, therapy is often essential to achieve the best possible outcome. Depending on the type of surgery, rehabilitation may begin within a few days or weeks of the operation.

 

Common surgeries requiring post-operative therapy include:

 

• Tendon repairs (flexor/extensor)

• Carpal tunnel release

• Trigger finger release

• Nerve repairs or decompression (e.g., carpal tunnel release)

• Fracture fixation (e.g., metacarpal or phalangeal fractures)

• Joint replacements or fusions

• Dupuytren’s contracture release

• Ligament reconstructions or reconstructions following trauma

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Goals of Post-Surgical Hand Therapy:

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• Protect surgical repairs while allowing safe mobilisation

• Restore range of motion, strength, and function

• Reduce pain and swelling

• Prevent joint stiffness and adhesions

• Provide guidance on return to work or hobbies

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What Might Be Involved:

 

• Custom Splinting: Often needed to protect repaired structures and allow controlled movement.

• Graded Exercise Progression: Carefully monitored and progressed according to healing timelines.

• Scar Management and Desensitisation: Techniques to improve scar flexibility and reduce sensitivity.

• Functional Re-Training: Helping patients return to specific daily or occupational tasks.

• Close Communication with Your Surgeon: Ensures that therapy progresses in line with surgical protocols and healing milestones.

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What Are the Benefits of Hand Therapy?

 

• Quicker return to function

• Reduced pain and stiffness

• Improved strength and mobility

• Reduced risk of complications such as joint stiffness or tendon adhesions

• Greater understanding of your condition and self-management

 

Is Hand Therapy Right for You?

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If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, weakness, or difficulty using your hand or wrist, ask your GP, surgeon, or healthcare provider about a referral to hand therapy. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.

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