Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the joints. When arthritis affects the hands, it can significantly impact daily life and hinder basic tasks. At HandsOn Therapy, a reputable hand therapy clinic in Brisbane, we understand the challenges faced by individuals dealing with hand arthritis. Our high-quality, easily accessible occupational therapy services cater to people of all ages, offering effective techniques to manage arthritis and enhance hand function. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of hand therapy in managing arthritis and the range of benefits it offers to those seeking relief and improved hand mobility.
Understanding Arthritis in the Hands
Arthritis is an umbrella term for various inflammatory joint conditions, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common types affecting the hands. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that occurs due to wear and tear of the joint cartilage over time. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the synovium, causing joint inflammation. Both types of arthritis can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced hand function.
Effective Hand Therapy Techniques for Arthritis:
Joint Protection Techniques: Hand therapy for arthritis involves teaching individuals effective joint protection techniques. Our experienced therapists demonstrate how to perform daily activities using larger joints to reduce stress on the affected hand joints. This helps minimise pain and further damage to the joints.
Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle range of motion exercises play a crucial role in maintaining or improving hand mobility. Our therapists guide individuals through specific exercises to keep the joints mobile and prevent them from becoming stiff or locked.
Strengthening Exercises: Hand therapy includes strengthening exercises to improve hand function and support the affected joints. By strengthening the surrounding muscles, individuals can better manage arthritis symptoms and regain hand strength.
Custom Splinting: Custom splints are used in hand therapy to support and stabilise arthritic joints, providing pain relief and improving hand function. Our skilled therapists design and fit custom splints tailored to the individual’s specific needs.
Pain Management Techniques: Managing arthritis pain is a significant aspect of hand therapy. Our therapists employ various pain management techniques, such as therapeutic modalities, manual therapy, and heat or cold therapy, to reduce discomfort and improve overall comfort.
Benefits of Hand Therapy for Arthritis
Improved Hand Function: Hand therapy helps individuals with arthritis regain hand function, making it easier to perform everyday tasks and maintain independence.
Reduced Pain and Inflammation: Through a combination of exercises, splinting, and pain management techniques, hand therapy effectively reduces pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
Enhanced Quality of Life: By improving hand mobility and reducing pain, hand therapy enhances the overall quality of life for individuals living with arthritis.
Customised Care: At HandsOn Therapy, our experienced and professional team provides personalised care tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals.
Contact Us
Hand therapy is a vital aspect of managing arthritis in the hands, offering effective techniques to alleviate pain, improve hand function, and enhance overall quality of life. At HandsOn Therapy, our experienced team of occupational therapists and physiotherapists is dedicated to providing high-quality hand therapy services in Brisbane. With nine clinics across Brisbane, Logan, Redland, and Moreton Bay, our easily accessible occupational therapy services cater to people of all ages. To learn more about managing arthritis with hand therapy, contact HandsOn Therapy at 07 3843 6605 or visit our website here. Take the first step towards relief and improved hand mobility with HandsOn Therapy.