Physical & Rehabilitative Care
Hand therapy
Hand therapy is specialized rehabilitation for hand, wrist, and upper-limb movement and daily use.
Overview
A hand therapist may use exercises, custom orthoses, scar care, and task practice. The plan must respect repaired tendons, fractures, wounds, and other healing tissues.
What to expect
- Review injury or surgery and restrictions.
- Assess hand motion, sensation, and function.
- Practice safe exercises or daily tasks.
- Fit or adjust an orthosis when indicated.
Why people explore it
- People often explore it for recovery after hand injury or surgery.
- People often explore it for grip and fine-motor difficulties.
- People often explore it for safe hand use during healing.
These are common reasons people look into it — not a sign that it's right for you.
What the evidence says
Well-supported for specific uses
Strong research or clinical guidelines support it for particular problems — not for everything.
Better supported
- Specialized rehabilitation supports function after many hand injuries and operations.
Promising, but limited or uncertain
- The best technique and schedule vary with the tissue, procedure, and healing stage.
Not supported by evidence
- Forceful stretching cannot safely bypass healing restrictions.
Possible risks and precautions
- Excess loading can disrupt a tendon repair or fracture healing; follow the surgeon’s limits.
- An orthosis that causes pressure, numbness, skin damage, or color changes needs prompt adjustment.
- Report infection signs, worsening swelling, severe pain, or circulation changes promptly.
If you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicines, ask your healthcare provider first.
Who provides it
- Licensed occupational or physical therapists with hand rehabilitation expertise provide care.
- Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is an added credential for eligible OTs or PTs, not a separate medical license; requirements vary by state.
Questions to ask before booking
- What experience do you have with this injury or repair?
- What signs mean my orthosis or exercises need adjustment?
- How will you adapt the session to my health history and comfort?
- What would mean I should stop or seek medical care?
Costs and coverage
- Ask for the full fee, evaluation charges, and any equipment or follow-up costs.
- Coverage depends on the service, provider, medical need, and plan rules; check with your plan about referrals, networks, and visit limits.
Coverage changes often and differs by plan. Always confirm with your insurer and the provider.
Find this service
Search our free Find Help directory under “Chiropractic & rehabilitation”. Listings are information only — appearing there is not an endorsement.
Watch & learn
Related educational videos from trusted creators:
15 Minute Gentle Full Body Stretch
Source: Jessica Valant
A gentle full-body routine with seated and floor-based stretching.
Skip floor movements if getting down or back up is not comfortable for you.
Watch on YouTubeThink it through
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Sources
Content reviewed . Written for general education and not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician.
Educational only — not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Supportive wellness practices do not replace necessary medical or mental-health care. Options are not equally effective, and not every option is right for every person. Please talk with a qualified healthcare professional about your own situation. In an emergency, call your local emergency number; in the US, call or text 988 for crisis support. Emergency help