Did you know hands are one of the most injury-prone parts of the body, with millions of injuries each year in the U.S.? Whether from repetitive strain, a sports accident, or a fall, hand injuries can seriously affect daily life and overall well-being.
At Pittsburgh Hand and Nerve, we specialize in treating hand injuries with advanced techniques and personalized care. As experts in hand surgery and certified hand therapy, we’re dedicated to helping you reduce pain and regain function. From minor injuries to complex conditions, we’ll guide you through every step of recovery. Schedule an appointment today and start healing.
Keep reading to discover the five most common hand injuries and how occupational hand therapy can help.
Common Hand Injuries Occupational Therapy Can Treat
Fractures
- Finger Fractures – Breaks in the small finger bones, often caused by trauma or falls, affecting mobility and grip.
- Wrist Fractures – Injuries to the wrist bones, often from bracing during a fall.
- Metacarpal Fractures – Breaks in the hand bones, usually from direct impact or crushing injuries.
Occupational therapy restores mobility after immobilization with exercises to rebuild strength, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness. Therapists also help patients safely perform daily tasks, supporting recovery and independence.
Tendon Injuries
- Sports injuries from overextension or sudden trauma.
- Overuse from repetitive motions in daily life or work.
Therapeutic Techniques
- Stretching to restore motion.
- Splinting to support healing and prevent damage.
- Soft tissue therapy to reduce adhesions and improve flexibility.
- Strengthening to help prevent the recurrence of the tendon injury.
Nerve Damage
Nerve issues like carpal tunnel syndrome and peripheral nerve injuries can cause pain, weakness, or numbness, affecting daily life. Occupational therapy helps manage these conditions with techniques such as nerve gliding exercises, sensory re-education, and ergonomic adjustments to reduce pain and improve function.
Sprains and Strains
Differences Between Sprains and Strains, and Their Impact on Daily Activities
Sprains involve stretched or torn ligaments, while strains affect muscles or tendons. Both cause pain, swelling, and difficulty with tasks like walking or lifting, depending on severity.
Focused Therapy Interventions
Therapy includes exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and stability. Ergonomic training helps prevent future injuries, along with education on proper movement and posture to reduce daily risks.
Ligament Injuries
- Ligament damage often comes from falls, sports injuries, or sudden twists.
- Thumb UCL injuries ('skier's thumb') usually result from impact or overextension.
- Therapy includes exercises to improve mobility and strength.
- Splints help support healing and prevent further injury.
How Therapists Tailor Treatments to Each Injury
Certified hand therapists provide personalized treatment plans based on each patient’s injury, lifestyle, and goals. Their tailored approach improves recovery, helping patients regain function and confidence in daily life.
Examples of Treatment Methods
- Splinting: Custom-made splints support injured areas, promote healing, and help prevent further strain.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques reduce pain, improve mobility, and address stiffness in the affected area.
- Guided Exercises: Targeted movements are designed to strengthen muscles, restore function, and enhance range of motion.
Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Hand Injuries
- Pain Relief: Heat/cold therapy, manual techniques, and custom splints to reduce discomfort.
- Preventing Stiffness: Stretching exercises and joint mobilization to maintain flexibility.
- Long-Term Gains: Better hand strength, dexterity, and function for daily tasks.
- Faster Recovery: Structured plans speed up healing and reduce complications.
Exercises That Support Recovery and Function
- Finger Stretches: Gently extend and spread all fingers, then relax and repeat. Helps improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Grip Strengthening: Squeeze a stress ball or soft object for 5 seconds, then release. Repeat 10 times to build hand strength.
- Thumb Flexion: Touch your thumb to the base of each finger and return to the starting position. This enhances the thumb's range of motion.
- Wrist Rotations: Slowly rotate your wrist in circular motions in both directions. Promotes joint mobility and reduces tension.
Tips for Integration:
- Do exercises 2–3 times daily in short sessions.
- Pair stretches with work or daily breaks for consistency.
- Set reminders or timers to make them part of your routine.
Take Care of Your Hands Today
Maintaining healthy hand and wrist function doesn’t have to be complicated—simple exercises and good habits make a big difference. At Pittsburgh Hand and Nerve, we are here to help you address any concerns and keep your hands feeling their best.
If you’re experiencing persistent pain or discomfort, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with Pittsburgh Hand and Nerve today to explore our specialized care for hand and nerve conditions. Dr. Spiess is ready to provide personalized treatment and get you back to doing what you love. Reach out now!
