Target Area: Hand
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How can Physical Therapy help me?
Physical Therapy is a trusted healthcare industry dedicated to evaluating and treating certain injuries and illnesses. The goal of Physical Therapists is to ease pain by helping you to move, live, and function better. [Source: bls.gov]. Also known as physiotherapists,...
Understanding the Causes of Hand and Wrist Pain
Understanding where your hand and wrist pain is coming from is essential to effectively treat it. Common causes may include injuries, such as fractures or sprains, and muscle strains due to sudden impacts or overexertion. Overuse injuries, often seen in individuals who perform repetitive tasks like typing or manual labor, can also lead to conditions such as tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Consulting a skilled hand physical therapist can help identify the root cause of these issues and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Arthritis is another significant contributor to hand and wrist pain, particularly in older adults. This condition can lead to joint inflammation, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Carpal tunnel syndrome, which results from compression of the median nerve within the wrist, can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand. Other medical conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders, may also contribute to the development of hand and wrist pain.
How Physical Therapy for Hand Pain Can Help
Physical therapy for hand pain involves a combination of therapeutic techniques aimed at reducing pain and restoring function. Initial treatments may include manual therapy to mobilize stiff joints and soft tissues, along with modalities like heat therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. A hand physical therapist will also introduce specific exercises to strengthen the muscles of the hand, wrist, and forearm to improve stability and support the affected areas.
Preventing Future Hand and Wrist Pain
Preventing reoccurence is critical aspect of physical therapy. Therefore, a hand physical therapist can help prevent a recurrence by focusing on hand and wrist strength, flexibility, and proper mechanics. They guide exercises and recommend ergonomic changes, like using wrist supports, while teaching regular hand exercises to maintain strength and avoid future injuries.
Why Choose Precision Rehabilitation
Hand and wrist pain vary for each individual, and care from a hand physical therapist is crucial. At Precision Rehabilitation, our therapists assess your condition to create a personalized treatment plan to address issues such as inflammation and mobility, while also helping you find relief. Our team is here to help you find relief. Don’t put off ⎯ contact us today!
Common Hand Pain Conditions
- Carpal Tunnel
- Trigger Finger
- Sprains
- Tendinitis
- Ganglion Cyst
- Arthritis
- De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
What & How We Treat
We offer a variety of exercises designed to address your specific wrist issues, including:
- Flexor Stretch: Gently bend your wrist downward, then use your other hand to apply slight pressure.
- Extensor Stretch: Gently bend your wrist up, and use your other hand to support it.
- Radial/Ulnar Deviation: Repeatedly move your wrist from side to side.
Nerve Gliding Exercises
These exercises are for carpal tunnel syndrome. Your physical therapist will teach you nerve gliding exercises in order to improve the mobility of the median nerve.
Joint Mobilization
Our therapists will utilize hands-on techniques focused on mobilizing and improving the movement of your wrist and hand joints.
Activity Modification
Your therapist may suggest modifications to your daily activities that are focused on reducing strain on your hands and wrists.