Hand & Finger Injury Rehab: The Role of Physiotherapy

Are you uncomfortable or have difficulty moving your hand or fingers due to an injury? If this is the case, physiotherapy may be the treatment of choice for you. After an injury that inhibits normal function, physical therapy can help decrease swelling and inflammation while improving flexibility, range of motion, grip strength, and stability. 

Discover more about the role of physiotherapy in hand and finger rehabilitation, the many types of hand and finger injuries, the advantages of the treatment, and other treatment choices below.

Common Hand And Finger Injuries

Accidents, sports, and repetitive movements are common causes of hand and finger injuries, which can be any of the following:

Fractures

Fractures may vary in intensity, from minor to severe. The nature and degree of the injury will determine the therapy required, the efficacy of the treatment apporach, and recovery time.

Sprains and Strains

The stretching or tearing of the ligaments and tendons of the hand and fingers causes sprains and strains. Pain, bruising, swelling, discolouration, and difficulty moving the afflicted region are all symptoms of these conditions. may result from a sprain or strain.

Tendonitis

Various circumstances, including overuse, injury, and certain medical disorders, can cause tendonitis. Tendonitis symptoms may include swelling, warmth or redness in the surrounding area, a clicking or popping sensation while moving the joint, pain, and stiffness.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

This condition occurs when the median nerve in the wrist compresses, causing numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Various circumstances, including repeated hand motions, pregnancy, and medical disorders, such as diabetes or arthritis, can cause this ailment. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome must be addressed as soon as possible since it can deteriorate over time and result in irreversible nerve damage if left untreated.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Hand and Finger Injury Rehab

Physiotherapy is essential in the treatment of hand and finger injuries. Patients can heal from their injuries, regain function, and return to their normal activities with confidence with the assistance of a trained physiotherapist

The procedure is non-invasive, safe, and effective. 

A detailed patient condition evaluation is included in hand and finger injury rehab. Your injuries, medical history, and functional limitations are all extensively evaluated in this initial assessment, which is the basis for your personalized treatment plan.

Types of Physiotherapy for Hand and Finger Injuries

Many different types of physiotherapy can treat hand and finger injuries. Below are some of the most common methods of physiotherapy for hand and finger injuries:

Range of Motion Exercises 

The treatment aims to increase the flexibility and mobility of the afflicted hand and fingers. Stretching, bending, and twisting measures can assist in relaxing stiff muscles and enhancing range of motion.

Strengthening Exercises 

This treatment aims to increase hand and finger strength to support the affected region and avoid future injuries. They may utilize resistance bands, hand weights, or specialized equipment to target particular muscles and enhance full hand and finger strength.

Manual Therapy

Hands-on therapies such as massage and joint manipulation relieve pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the afflicted area. It can be very beneficial for tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Splinting 

This method may be indicated as part of a physiotherapy treatment plan for hand and finger injuries in some situations. Splints can assist in immobilizing the damaged region while providing support and protection during the healing process.

Other Treatments for Hand and Finger Injuries

In addition to physiotherapy, there are alternative treatment options for hand and finger injuries, and the following are some examples:

Medications

Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medicines may be recommended to alleviate pain and inflammation.

Surgery

Surgery may be required in some situations to heal the injuries and restore function to the hand and fingers.

Braces

Braces may be advised to immobilize and protect the hand or finger from additional harm. These gadgets can also aid in supporting and healing the wounded region.

Healing modalities such as heat, ice, and ultrasound can also be utilized. In addition to these treatments, patients can benefit from injury prevention education, lifestyle changes, and ergonomic adaptations.

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Hand and Finger Injury Rehab

Some of the advantages of physiotherapy for hand and finger injury rehabilitation are as follows:

Improved Range of Motion

A physiotherapist’s range of motion exercises is intended to gently stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons of the hand and fingers. These exercises can also aid in the reduction of stiffness and the improvement of general hand and finger function.

Increased Strength and Flexibility

Stretching, resistance training, and manual therapy can all be used during physiotherapy sessions to improve strength and flexibility. These exercises increase grip strength, agility, and general hand and finger function.

Reduced Pain and Inflammation

Physiotherapy can help relieve pain and inflammation and promote healing through targeted exercises and manual therapy techniques.

Prevention of Long-Term Complications

Physiotherapy can treat underlying problems contributing to long-term complications such as persistent discomfort, weakness, and loss of hand and finger function. Physiotherapy can prevent these conditions from becoming more severe.

Restoration of Function

Physiotherapy may help restore the range of motion, strength, and agility of the hand and fingers through various exercises and procedures, ultimately restoring function. This can considerably improve patients’ quality of life and help them recover control of their daily routines.

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Hands & Fingers With PARC of Ontario

Are you looking to rehabilitate after an injury or surgery? Consider physiotherapy a safe and effective technique to rebuild the strength, mobility, and function of your body. PARC of Ontario is a trusted clinic for physiotherapy in Oshawa. We provide tailored treatment programs to assist you in reaching your goals and getting back to doing what you enjoy.

Our trained and qualified physiotherapists employ various approaches. We will help you every step of the way, whether recovering from a sports injury, following surgery or simply attempting to improve your range of motion. Call us today at 905.579.9938 (Oshawa), 416.430.0314 (Scarborough), 647.352.1100 (Scarborough South), 905.430.2112 (Whitby), and 905.686.9081 (Ajax), and make your first appointment with us to begin your road to a healthier self!