SHOW PRICES WITH OR WITHOUT VAT? MANY BUSINESS CUSTOMERS PREFER TO VIEW PRICES EXCLUDING VAT.
0151 448 1228 (UK)
Search

Please Login for Account Pricing
My Basket
Wishlist

Hand Therapy Solutions

The hands are an important part of our physiology and we use them for lots of everyday activities and are essential to being able to carry out daily activities. The hands have 29 major joints, at least 123 ligaments, 34 muscles, 48 nerves and 30 arteries that all work together to allow us to make the movements we need to go about our day. When parts of the hand are damaged or are weakened after injury carrying out simple tasks can prove difficult and painful too. 

Hand therapy is about rehabilitation and resoring strength and movement to parts of the hand that have been comprimised from injury. From hand putty and therapy balls it is important to use hand therapy equipment to support the healing and recovery from hand injuries.

Hand Therapy Solutions

What is Hand Therapy?

Hand therapy is a specialised area of rehabilitation focused on treating conditions and injuries affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm. It is typically performed by occupational therapists or physiotherapists who have undergone additional training to become certified hand therapists. The goal of hand therapy is to help individuals regain optimal function, reduce pain, and improve the strength and dexterity of their hands.

Conditions Treated in Hand Therapy

Hand therapy can address a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Traumatic injuries: Fractures, dislocations, tendon and nerve injuries.
  • Repetitive strain injuries: Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and tenosynovitis.
  • Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis affecting the hand and wrist.
  • Congenital conditions: Conditions present from birth affecting hand function.
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation: Recovery following hand surgeries such as tendon repairs, nerve repairs, or joint replacements.

Techniques and Treatments

Hand therapists employ various techniques and treatments tailored to the patient's specific needs. These may include:

  • Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques to mobilise joints and soft tissues.
  • Exercise programmes: Strengthening and stretching exercises to improve function and prevent stiffness. Hand exercise aids such as therapy putty, hand grippers, resistance bands, and therapy balls are often used to facilitate these exercises and target specific muscles and movements.
  • Splinting: Custom-made splints to protect and support the hand, reduce pain, and improve alignment.
  • Pain management: Techniques such as heat/cold therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation.
  • Activity modification and ergonomic advice: Strategies to perform daily tasks in ways that reduce strain on the hand and wrist.
  • Education: Teaching patients about their condition, proper hand care, and ways to prevent future injuries.

Benefits of Hand Therapy

Hand therapy can significantly improve a patient's quality of life by:

  • Reducing pain and inflammation.
  • Increasing hand strength and flexibility.
  • Enhancing fine motor skills and dexterity.
  • Promoting faster and more complete recovery from injuries or surgery.
  • Preventing the recurrence of hand problems.

Hand therapy is vital for anyone experiencing hand-related issues, helping them regain their independence and return to their daily activities with improved function and confidence.

How Effective is Hand Therapy?

Hand therapy is highly effective for many individuals experiencing hand, wrist, and forearm conditions. The effectiveness of hand therapy can be attributed to several factors, including the personalised nature of the treatment, the expertise of certified hand therapists, and the comprehensive approach to rehabilitation. Here are some key points highlighting the effectiveness of hand therapy:

Evidence-Based Benefits

  • Improved Function and Mobility: Hand therapy helps restore movement and function in the hand and wrist, allowing patients to perform daily activities with greater ease and less pain.
  • Pain Reduction: Techniques such as manual therapy, exercises, and pain management strategies effectively reduce pain and inflammation associated with various hand conditions.
  • Enhanced Strength and Flexibility: Targeted exercises and the use of hand exercise aids, such as therapy putty and resistance bands, strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility, which is crucial for recovery and preventing future injuries.
  • Faster Recovery: Post-surgical rehabilitation and treatment of traumatic injuries through hand therapy can significantly speed up the recovery process, allowing patients to return to their normal activities sooner.
  • Prevention of Further Issues: Education on proper hand care, activity modification, and ergonomic advice helps prevent the recurrence of hand problems and reduce the risk of future injuries.

Research and Studies

Several studies and clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of hand therapy. For instance:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Research has shown that hand therapy, including splinting and specific exercises, can be as effective as surgery for some patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, particularly in the early stages.
  • Post-Surgical Recovery: Studies indicate that patients who engage in hand therapy after hand surgery, such as tendon or nerve repairs, experience better functional outcomes and faster recovery times compared to those who do not receive therapy.
  • Arthritis Management: Hand therapy has been found to significantly improve grip strength, reduce pain, and enhance the overall hand function in individuals with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Patient Satisfaction

Patients who undergo hand therapy often report high levels of satisfaction due to the personalised care and noticeable improvements in their hand function and quality of life. The hands-on approach and continuous support from therapists contribute to positive outcomes and patient adherence to treatment plans.

Limitations and Considerations

While hand therapy is effective for many conditions, its success can depend on various factors, such as the severity of the condition, patient compliance with the therapy regimen, and the skill level of the therapist. In some cases, surgery or other medical interventions may be necessary in conjunction with hand therapy.

Hand therapy is a valuable and effective treatment option for a wide range of hand-related conditions. By focusing on personalised care, evidence-based practices, and comprehensive rehabilitation strategies, hand therapists help patients achieve significant improvements in function, strength, and overall quality of life.