Hand therapy treatments cover many conditions affecting the hands, wrists, and upper limbs. These therapies, which can help with everything from carpal tunnel syndrome to arthritis, can reduce pain, improve function, and even prevent further damage. What kinds of hand therapy treatments are there? Let’s take a look.
#1. Occupational Hand Therapy Treatments
Hand therapy involves assisting patients in regaining the ability to do everyday tasks with their hands following an injury or illness. It will include retraining the muscles to perform basic tasks such as opening jars or brushing teeth and providing adaptive equipment.
Additionally, hand therapy treatment ideas can be as simple as improving splints or braces to help support weakened joints. Occupational therapists often teach exercises and stretches that can be done at home to maintain hand strength and flexibility.
#2. Physical Hand Therapy Treatments
Physical therapy focuses on arm and hand muscle strengthening, range of motion improvement and pain relief. Specific exercises, such as wrist flexion/extension or finger abduction/adduction, may be prescribed to target weak areas.
Therapists may also employ ultrasound or electrical stimulation to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Physical therapists may also instruct patients on performing daily tasks correctly to reduce hand strain.
#3. Massage Hand Therapy Treatments
Massage therapy is another type of hand therapy service that aims to improve circulation and reduce tension in the muscles and connective tissues of the arms and hands, especially for those who have sports injuries. Additionally, massage can help relieve muscle tension caused by repetitive strain injuries.
With the best hand therapy treatment ideas, you can alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome and chronic conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. Moreover, therapists are trained to identify areas of excessive muscle tension and use various massage techniques to release it, such as kneading, rolling, and tapping.
Common Conditions Hands on Therapy Can Treat
Hand therapy is an occupational therapy method that focuses on diagnosing and treating problems with the hand, wrist, and elbow. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Nerve injury or compression
- Trigger finger
- Arthritis
Hand therapists from Hands on Therapy may also provide post-surgery care for orthopaedic and plastic surgeries involving the upper extremity. Furthermore, they can assist in optimising the function of the patient’s affected limb to ensure proper performance of daily living activities and work tasks.
Treatment Techniques Used in Hand Therapy Treatments
Hand therapists treat upper extremity conditions with various techniques, including activities to improve range of motion, strength, and coordination. So, Hands on therapy therapists may use modalities such as:
- Paraffin wax
- Ultrasound
- Electrical stimulation
- Iontophoresis
These Hands on therapy may reduce joint swelling or stiffness. Additionally, hand therapy treatment ideas can educate patients on properly using splints and other therapeutic devices.
The Bottom Line
By combining these various types of hand therapy treatments, hand therapists tailor comprehensive rehabilitation programs to address the specific needs and goals of each individual. As a result, it promotes optimal recovery, functional independence, and improved quality of life.
Contact Your Professional Hand Therapist
HandsOn Therapy is a Brisbane occupational therapist and hand therapy clinic that offers high-quality, easily accessible therapy services for the hands and upper limbs. We strive to provide a multidisciplinary approach to health and have a reputation for expertise and training excellence. Our clients are reliable, trustworthy, motivated, happy, and healthy. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to evaluate your upper limb injury.