Physical Therapy
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Repetitive Use Injuries of the Hand
and Elbow
Repetitive motion, or cumulative
trauma injuries, are those injuries that develop over the course of
time. These problems often develop gradually and then worsen to a
point where the patient is affected severely enough to seek
treatment.
Common repetitive use injuries of the
hand and elbow include trigger finger, DeQuervain’s disease, carpal
tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, and medial and lateral
epicondylitis (tennis or golfer’s elbow).
Repetitive use injuries put strain on
the cartilage, ligaments, and tendons surrounding the affected
joint. This strain may lead to the development of swelling,
inflammation, and ultimately tissue damage. Repetitive use injuries
can be treated with success by a qualified rehab professional.
Physical or Occupational Therapists
trained in hand rehabilitation can assist in long range planning to
prevent re-injury. They can address muscle and joint stress and
weakness, as well as, redesign the working environment to eliminate
the potential for problems.
Traumatic Injuries of the Hand and
Elbow:
Traumatic injuries are those injuries
that are a direct consequence of accidents. This category includes
fractures, strains, and sprains, as well as burns and animal bites.
Traumatic injuries almost always require emergent care and immediate
medical intervention. As the injury begins to heal, a Physical or
Occupational Therapist with experience in hand rehabilitation can
assist the healing process and improve function of the hand. Hand
therapists will use a combination of manual therapy techniques,
stretching and strengthening exercises, modalities for pain relief
and swelling reduction, and desensitization activities. These
interventions will improve range of motion and strength and promote
normal function of the hand and elbow.
Hand Rehabilitation After Surgery:
Hand therapists work closely with
surgeons to promote optimal recovery after surgery on the elbow,
wrist, and hand. Your hand therapist will routinely discuss your
progress with your surgeon and assist you in returning to your full
activities as soon as is feasible for you to do so.
Will Hand Rehabilitation Include?
-Stretching and strengthening
exercises for the hand, elbow, and wrist.
-Scar massage and joint mobilization.
-Therapeutic modalities, including electrical stimulation,
ultrasound, heat, cold, and iontophoresis.
-Job simulation to prepare for return to work, if appropriate.
-Patient education regarding injury prevention.
Is Hand Therapy right for me?
If you think that you would benefit
from hand rehabilitation, contact your healthcare provider for a
referral. You may call our office if you have questions regarding
your injury and are uncertain if therapy is right for you.
What Can I Expect From Therapy?
You can expect to receive a
comprehensive and thorough evaluation of your hand, elbow, and wrist
including the following:
-Strength evaluation of the major
muscle groups of the upper extremity, including grip analysis.
-Assessment of swelling via volumetric or circumfrential
measurements.
-Evaluation of sensory integrity between the left and right hands.
-Assessment of possible tender paints and hypersensitivity of any
surgical incisions or scars.
A therapy plan of care will be
established and discussed in detail with each patient following the
completion of the initial evaluation. This plan of care will be
based on objective finding from the initial evaluation.
