The human hand has 27 bones, 27 joints, 34 muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Arteries, veins, and nerves bring blood flow and sensation into the wrist, palm, and fingers. Working together, the hand can perform delicate and complicated tasks.
The dexterity of the hands also leaves them vulnerable to injury and a range of other conditions. Fortunately, the pain and dysfunction can be reduced or eliminated with hand therapy.
Common Conditions Affecting the Hands
No matter your age, your hands are an integral part of daily life. Brushing your teeth, buttoning a shirt, throwing a ball, writing a work report, opening a bottle, clasping a necklace, driving a car, and the list goes on. Not being able to use your hands for tasks big and small can be frustrating and painful.
Common conditions that reduce a hand’s function include the following:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Arthritis
- Tendinitis
- Ganglion Cyst
- Trigger Finger
- Fractures & Dislocations
At ProFysio Physical Therapy, our doctors of physical therapy and board-certified occupational therapists offer comprehensive treatments for hand injuries and impairments. The occupational therapists focus on modalities that help patients carry out daily activities while improving mobility and decreasing pain. Hand therapy may also eliminate the need for surgery.
Modern & Time-Tested Treatments in Hand Therapy
Muscles, nerves, connective tissue, and bones are all evaluated when determining the most effective course of action. There are no cookie-cutter treatment profiles at ProFysio Physical Therapy. Each patient receives a customized approach based on their diagnosis, abilities, limitations, and other factors.
Treatments often used in conjunction with hand therapy include the following:
- Cryotherapy. Uses deep-cold therapy to reduce inflammation.
- EPAT Therapy. Uses sound waves to accelerate the healing process.
- Fluidotherapy. Reduces swelling and improves range of motion.
- Heat Therapy. Relaxes soft tissue and increases circulation.
- Manual therapy. Kneading and manipulating soft tissue to improve mobility.
- Pain Management. Provides an alternative to prescription opioids.
- Scar Management. Alleviates sensitivity around scars and enhances movement.
- Splinting. Supports and protects joints in your hand.
- Therapeutic Exercises. Patient-specific exercises that take the wrists and fingers through specific moves.
- Therapeutic Massage. Reduces pain and anxiety and improves grip strength.
- Wound Care. Keeps the wound from becoming too wet or dry to advance healing.
Hand therapy can also address related issues in the shoulder to improve the overall function of the arms and hands. The ultimate goals of hand therapy are to reduce pain, improve flexibility and dexterity, increase range of motion, and boost strength. We want you to be able to do all the things you need and want to do.
Begin Treatment Without a Prescription
All 50 states allow for some degree of access to physical therapy without a prescription, but the rules vary from state to state. In New Jersey, you do not need a prescription to begin therapy. ProFysio Physical Therapy is a direct-access provider.
At ProFysio Physical Therapy, you can expect the following:
- Clinical Excellence
- Individualized Care
- State-of-the-Art Technology
- Convenience
- Affordability
- Collaborative Care
Unlike other clinics that often have a 1:4 ratio, our physical therapists treat no more than two patients per hour. We believe this is important to be able to give you the focused care and attention you deserve. Our four convenient locations are located in Aberdeen, Edison, East Brunswick, and Old Bridge.
Getting started on the path to a more active life is easy. Contact us today at (732) 812-5200 to request a personalevaluation with one of our physical therapists.