If you’ve experienced pain, stiffness, or loss of movement in your hands, you know how challenging it can be to perform everyday tasks, like brushing your teeth or preparing dinner. The importance of hand therapy lies in its ability to address these issues effectively, offering targeted treatments so you can live your life to the fullest.
The certified hand therapist at Elliott Physical Therapy in Hanover, MA uses various techniques to reduce pain and swelling, improve range of motion, and strengthen the muscles in your hands and wrists. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, rehabilitating after surgery, or managing a chronic condition like arthritis, we offer a path to better function and less pain.
Our team of experts is here to help you every step of the way. Call our Hanover, MA clinic today for more information about the importance of hand therapy, or read on to see how it might benefit you.
Common Reasons People Seek Our Hand Therapy
Many conditions can benefit from hand therapy. Here are a few of the most common:
- Hand Fractures: Breaking one of the delicate bones in your hand or wrist can significantly limit your ability to use that hand. Our knowledge of the hand’s complex structures will help you find the right treatment for your needs.
- Sprains and Strains: Sprains occur due to ligament damage (such as a wrist sprain), while strains occur due to muscle or tendon damage (examples include many common overuse injuries of the hand). Both cause pain and restricted mobility.
- Hand Arthritis: This condition causes pain, swelling, and inflammation in the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, often starts in the small joints of the hands. Osteoarthritis, which develops when cartilage wears down in the joints, can also affect the hands and wrist.
- Nerve Injuries: Several nerve injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome, can affect the hands and upper extremities. Nerve injuries or disorders typically cause pain, numbness, and tingling.
- Post-Surgical Recovery: Hand therapy is crucial if you’ve undergone surgery on your hand or wrist. It helps ensure that you’re properly healed and will help you restore strength and mobility in the affected area.
The Importance of Hand Therapy in Finding Relief
When you come to Elliott Physical Therapy for hand therapy, we’ll start with a comprehensive evaluation. Our experienced therapist will assess your condition, understand your symptoms, and identify the best course of action. This thorough assessment is essential for creating a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
The importance of hand therapy becomes clear when you see the range of effective treatments available. Our therapist uses evidence-based techniques to help you regain strength and mobility. Here’s what you can expect:
Manual Therapy
These various hands-on techniques involve your therapist manipulating your hand and wrist to reduce pain and improve movement. Manual therapy can be particularly beneficial for conditions like arthritis and tendon injuries.
Other Pain Management Techniques
Techniques such as heat and cold therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation can help manage pain and swelling, making rehabilitation more comfortable.
Customized Hand Therapy Exercise Programs
These exercises are designed to improve your hand’s strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Your therapist will guide you through exercises that target the specific muscles and tendons affected by your condition.
Splinting and Bracing in Hand Therapy
Sometimes, supporting the affected area with a brace or splint can help you heal faster and prevent further injury. Your therapist will determine if this is necessary for your condition. Our Certified Hand Therapist can make custom thermoplastic splints/orthoses for many common conditions of the hand, wrist and elbow. She can also ensure the best fit for an off-the-shelf item that you may be considering but need some direction as far as specification and size.
Education and Prevention
Our therapist will teach you how to avoid movements and activities that could worsen your condition, helping to ensure long-term health.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Come in for a Comprehensive Evaluation
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!