Physical Therapy for Hands & Wrists

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Houston Methodist offers physical therapy for hand and wrist injuries. In many cases, these injuries happen unexpectedly and can occur in a variety of settings, including during daily activities, while playing sports, at work and more.

We’re dedicated to providing outstanding physical therapy to help restore function to these areas, limit pain, prevent additional injuries and increase wrist and hand mobility to improve your overall quality of life.

Our licensed physical therapists, world-class orthopedics and sports medicine physicians, physical therapy assistants and highly skilled technicians work together to develop and implement the best therapy plan for your specific needs. 

Hand & Wrist Conditions We Treat With Physical Therapy

In terms of your upper extremities, your hand and wrist are incredibly important components. At the same time, they are also highly susceptible to many injuries and conditions that could severely limit your ability to perform typical physical activities. From thumb joint chronic pain and dislocations to something more serious like rheumatoid arthritis, the following wrist and hand conditions usually call for highly specialized care: 

Arthritis

From targeted hand exercises to occupational therapy, we’re here to help you with pain management and restoring functionality to inflamed joints. 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Usually caused by repetitive movements (i.e., typing, texting, knitting, etc.), our therapists employ specific exercises and techniques that can provide pain relief for those with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Crushed Fingers, Amputations & Lacerations With Nerve Damage

These kinds of injuries are serious, and in many cases require a customized treatment plan that focuses on the best results for your specific condition. 

Fractures & Sprains

Broken hands or wrists require targeted therapy to facilitate a full recovery post-healing. Your discharge plan will focus on regaining your strength and full range of motion. 

Tendonitis & Tennis Elbow

In many cases, these kinds of conditions can be treated via targeted exercises. The goal is to strengthen the muscles around affected tendons and to manage pain. 

Trigger Finger

If the tendons that flex your fingers or thumbs are locking, experiencing pain or are stiff, they may benefit from stretching exercises, splinting and other therapies. 

Our Physical Hand Therapy Services

The occupational therapists and certified hand therapists (CHT) at our Houston Methodist Orthopedic Injury Clinics are here to provide comprehensive therapy services customized to treat a range of hand and wrist conditions. These therapies include: 

 

  • Aquatic therapy: Low-impact exercises in water that can help improve the rehabilitation process via improved range of motion, greater strength and increased balance. 
  • Functional capacity evaluation: An assessment of your ability to perform everyday tasks, which can help your therapist develop an effective treatment plan. 
  • Graston technique: This technique breaks down scar tissue using specialized instruments and can help improve the soft tissue mobility in your hands or wrists. 
  • Manual therapy: A hands-on technique that can assist in improving joint mobility, pain reduction and the restoration of full functionality.  
  • Ultrasound therapy: This therapy reduces pain and inflammation while promoting health in injured hands and wrists. 
  • Youth physical therapy: Our youth physical therapists understand the unique needs of children and are dedicated to providing the best youth care. Available at our Clear Lake location.

 

Our hand and wrist team will implement a discharge plan that uses a patient-specific combination of home exercise programs and innovative therapies to help you restore functionality and reduce pain.

Signs You Need Physical Therapy for Your Hands & Wrists

Unsure if you need physical therapy? If you’ve experienced any of the following in your hands or wrists, it may be time to consult an arm, wrist, hand and elbow specialist at Houston Methodist:

 

  • Immobility
  • Pain
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Severe swelling
  • Stiffness

 

Our physical therapists are here to evaluate and determine the best treatment plan for any issues with your hands or wrists. 

Physical Therapy for Professional Athletes & More

For more than five decades, the orthopedics & sports medicine physicians at Houston Methodist have served as team doctors for the Houston Astros. We’ve also served the Houston Texans since their inaugural season in 2002. In addition, we’re trusted by the parents of student athletes in hundreds of local youth leagues and high school teams, fine arts organizations and other premier professional sports teams. Our sports medicine physical therapists are committed to helping prime-time athletes and entertainers return to peak performance as soon as possible. 

Meet Houston’s Best Physical Therapists for Hands & Wrists

Chronic conditions and sudden injuries that affect your wrists, hands or fingers can wreak havoc on your ability to live a normal life. Contact us today at 713.790.3333 to schedule a consultation with our team of certified hand therapists. Our treatment plans are specific to your needs and designed to help you reach the maximum level of improvement.

Learn more about our physical therapy & rehabilitation services >

FAQs About Physical Therapy for Hands & Wrists

How long does hand and wrist physical therapy typically take?

The time it takes to complete physical therapy depends on the severity, type of injury and your specific needs. Our therapists will create a personalized treatment plan (typically including an exercise program) that can extend weeks or months, depending on the progress of recovery and other factors. 

What exercises are beneficial for hand and wrist rehabilitation?

The best exercises for hand and wrist rehab depend on many factors, including your specific injury, fitness level and more. A few of the most popular and effective exercises recommended by your therapist may include: 

  • Finger and thumb squeezes using a softball or putty
  • Finger stretches and finger lifts
  • Grip strengthening
  • Tendon glides

 

These kinds of treatments are designed to improve the overall function of your extremities and reduce pain. 

Can physical therapy prevent the need for surgery for hand and wrist injuries?

Depending on the circumstances, yes, physical therapy can potentially reduce your need for hand or wrist surgery by a significant margin. In addition to managing your symptoms, physical therapy can help improve strength and overall flexibility in the affected areas. 

How can I manage pain during hand and wrist exercises?

You should talk to a physical therapist about the best pain management techniques for your condition. However, generally, short-term techniques like using ice and heat can help. Further, completing your exercises at a proper pace can be crucial. Our therapists will personalize your care plan to your needs and comfort levels. 

When is it safe to return to work or sports after a hand or wrist injury?

While tempting, it’s not always the best idea to return to work or sports quickly after an injury to your hand or wrist. Your recovery time will depend on your response to treatment. Our therapists at Houston Methodist will provide a timetable of when you can safely return to normal activities.

Are there any lifestyle modifications I should consider during hand and wrist rehabilitation?

Changing your daily activities and work environment may help you recover faster and more comfortably. This can include ergonomic adjustments, decreased activity and stopping activities that directly affect the injured areas. Generally, modifications will be recommended depending on your specific needs and environment. 

What should I expect during my first physical therapy session for a hand or wrist injury?

During your first visit with a therapist at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, you can expect: 

  • Injury assessment 
  • Discussion about your recovery goals
  • Beginning phases of developing your personalized treatment plan
  • A discussion about next steps and expectations
  • Scheduling follow-up appointments 

 

Learn more about the orthopedic specialties available at Houston Methodist.