Hand Therapy

Our Approach to Hand Therapy 

At Lifespan, our certified hand therapists work with top orthopedic and plastic hand surgeons to offer personalized outpatient rehabilitation for hand injuries. We focus on restoring as much functionality as possible using a range of techniques, such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, desensitization, work conditioning, and therapeutic modalities – all designed to speed your return to daily activities. Our integrated approach ensures the best possible outcomes, helping you regain the use of your arm and hand swiftly and effectively.

What should I expect from hand therapy? 

At Lifespan, patients can expect a highly personalized and effective treatment experience when they come to us for hand therapy. Our occupational therapists, who are also certified hand therapists, have advanced training in treating hand and arm injuries. During your therapy, patients will participate in specialized exercises, manual therapy techniques, and possibly work conditioning, all aimed at improving function, reducing pain, and accelerating recovery. Our goal is to help you regain strength, flexibility, and the ability to perform daily activities as efficiently and independently as possible.

What types of hand injuries do we treat?

Lifespan Outpatient Rehabilitation specializes in treating a wide range of hand injuries and conditions to help restore abilities and lessen pain. Our skilled therapists provide expert care for burns, amputations, acute and multiple trauma, tendon or nerve injuries, fractures, dislocations, joint instabilities, tendonitis, arthritis, cumulative trauma disorders, and brachial plexus injuries.

How do I know if I need hand therapy? 

If you are having trouble with daily tasks like gripping a car key, typing, or holding objects because of hand or wrist pain, stiffness, or weakness, hand therapy might help you. Therapy also is useful if you are still feeling pain or cannot move well after an injury or surgery, or if you have ongoing issues like arthritis. At Lifespan, our expert therapists will check your symptoms and see if hand therapy is a good fit for you. They'll make sure your treatment plan is customized to help you get back to your normal activities as smoothly and quickly as possible.

What should I expect during my first hand therapy session? 

During your first hand therapy session at Lifespan, our skilled therapists will look at your injury and ask you about your medical history, the issues you are experiencing with your hand, and any specific goals you have for therapy. You might be asked to perform some simple movements to help the therapist understand the extent of your pain and mobility issues. This initial evaluation helps us create a personalized treatment plan that targets your specific needs. The therapist will also explain what treatments might be used in future sessions, such as exercises or manual therapy, and will answer any questions you might have about your path to recovery.

How long does each hand therapy session last? 

Each hand therapy session at Lifespan typically lasts about 30 to 45 minutes. During this time, you will work one-on-one with a certified hand therapist who will guide you through various treatments tailored to your specific needs. These might include exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques designed to improve your hand function and reduce discomfort. The duration of each session is set to ensure you receive focused and effective therapy without overwhelming you, helping you achieve the best possible outcome from your treatment.

Types of Hand Injuries

• Burns
• Amputations
• Acute and multiple trauma
• Tendon or nerve injuries
• Fractures/dislocations
• Joint instabilities
• Tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Cumulative trauma
• Brachial plexus injuries

Treatment Methods for Hand Injuries

• Custom orthotics/bracing
• Manual therapy techniques
• Therapeutic exercise and activities
• Desensitization
• Pain management
• Education in adaptive equipment and techniques, posture, and ergonomics
• Work conditioning
• Therapeutic warming and cooling

Learn more about outpatient rehabilitation services at Lifespan