Become a Hand Physiotherapist

Whether it be osteoarthritis, tendon surgery, or carpal tunnel syndrome – our hand therapy team will assist in returning you to your entire physical ability.

Hand physio Mawson Lakes are specially trained in instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation (ASTYM) techniques and massage-like manipulations designed to increase flexibility in the soft tissues of the hands.

Qualifications

Step one in becoming a hand therapist is earning a bachelor’s degree from an accredited physical or occupational therapy program and then passing the licensure examination for physical therapy or occupational therapy practitioners.

Once you pass your licensing exam, you may pursue Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) status if desired. CHTs are distinguished OTs and PTs with advanced clinical experience treating upper quadrant conditions caused by trauma, disease or congenital abnormality.

Hand therapy is an intricate discipline requiring advanced postgraduate education and clinical experience to become proficient. Hand therapists specialise in treating injuries, diseases and disorders of the hand, wrist, arm, elbow and shoulder girdle and using special techniques like modalities work hardening activity modification and ergonomic consultation to treat these disorders effectively.

Your hand therapist will perform a complete assessment and discuss your individual needs, goals and expectations of treatment before developing a customised care plan that may involve multiple visits (e.g. three times weekly), home exercises or activities designed to speed your recovery – such as range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises or posture and nerve sensation practices; all to return you to meaningful occupational pursuits.

Procedures

Hand therapists specialise in treating fractures, nerve injuries, scars, amputations and burns of the upper extremities. Additionally, they treat illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and neurological conditions which affect hands, arms and wrists.

Hand therapy differs from physical therapy (PT) in that it focuses on helping patients complete daily tasks they wish and require of themselves. Hand therapists employ a client-centric and occupational-based approach when identifying patients’ needs.

Hand physio Mawson Lakes providers will educate patients on proper wound care and dressing changes to avoid infection and minimise skin scarring, helping reduce pain and prevent further stiffness.

Professionals may instruct patients on a range of strengthening exercises for both hand and arm strengthening, including using putty with various firmness levels, grippers, weights, TheraBands or other devices. Passive treatments like fluidotherapy, iontophoresis, therapeutic ultrasound or desensitisation may be used to control pain or manage sensitivity effectively.

Home exercise programs tailored specifically to each patient are also provided, which help build upon and reinforce what has been accomplished during therapy sessions and allow them to regain confidence in performing daily activities and return to a lifestyle they enjoyed before any injury or illness.

Assessments

Hand therapists are adept at evaluating and treating upper extremity conditions due to injury, disease, congenital abnormalities or age-related degeneration.

Your therapist will conduct an initial assessment by measuring and recording specific objective measures to establish a baseline against which to measure progress toward recovery. These measurements allow them to select a practical course of treatment.

Your therapist will also use various tests to measure your strength and functional ability, including lateral pinch, pincer grasp and three-jaw chuck tests. In addition, they’ll conduct an assembly-timed trial, recording how many pegs were correctly assembled within 1 minute.

Your therapist may recommend splints to protect, immobilise and stretch your hand and forearm to reduce stiffness. They will also assess your skin and may recommend wound care techniques such as pressure relief for hypertrophic or keloid scars or desensitisation techniques for overactive spots.

Treatments

HCPC-registered occupational and physical therapists with advanced knowledge in treating hand and upper arm conditions can offer comprehensive treatments, from preventative measures such as home exercise regimens to complete rehabilitation packages.

CHTs specialise in treating various injuries and illnesses affecting the upper extremity, such as fractures, dislocations, tendon lacerations/repairs, peripheral nerve injury, burns, amputations, Dupuytren’s disease and carpal tunnel syndrome; CHTs can also assist patients suffering chronic problems that impact the upper extremity such as rheumatoid arthritis, neurological disorders or pain management.

Hand physio Mawson Lakes physiotherapist will monitor and adjust your progress towards your goal at each appointment. They’ll focus on improving the range of motion, strength and posture to enhance functional use of the arm; additionally, they may prescribe wrist or elbow splints to protect against injuries and ensure comfort.