Hand therapy is a specialized form of rehabilitation that focuses on treating injuries and conditions affecting the hands, wrists, elbows, and arms. It is provided by trained physical or occupational therapists who help patients regain movement, strength, and function after injury, surgery, or medical conditions such as fractures, tendon injuries, arthritis, nerve damage, or repetitive strain disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Hand therapists use a combination of therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, splinting, scar management, and pain-relief techniques to improve mobility and reduce discomfort. Treatment is highly individualized and may include custom-made splints, fine motor skill training, and functional activities that simulate everyday tasks such as gripping, writing, or lifting. Education on proper hand use and injury prevention is also an important part of therapy.

The goal of hand therapy is to restore as much function as possible so individuals can return to work, sports, and daily activities with confidence. Whether recovering from surgery, managing chronic hand pain, or rehabilitating after trauma, hand therapy helps improve strength, coordination, and independence in all hand and upper-extremity movements.