From typing and writing to cooking, lifting objects and getting dressed each day, our hands are involved in nearly everything we do. As they’re constantly in use, they’re also more likely to be injured or affected by overuse, surgery or chronic conditions.
In this guide, we explore common hand and wrist issues and explain how working with a certified hand therapist can help you regain strength, mobility and confidence.
What Is Hand Therapy?
Hand therapy is a specialised area of rehabilitation focused on the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow and shoulder. It blends principles of physiotherapy, occupational therapy and advanced knowledge and experience in the upper limb to enable an experienced and educated assessment, diagnosis and rehabilitation plan to support recovery from injury, surgery and chronic conditions.
Combining Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
A hand therapist uses precise evidence based assessment techniques and targeted treatments to restore mobility, reduce inflammation and rebuild strength, thereby minimising complications and maximising recovery. This may include manual therapy, custom made splinting, scar management, exercise prescription and functional retraining.
Who Can Benefit from Advanced Hand Therapy?
Many people brush off hand or wrist pain until it starts interrupting the things they love, such as playing sports, gardening, crafting, or even holding a steering wheel comfortably. Management by an accredited hand therapist becomes especially valuable due to their extensive knowledge and understanding of functional anatomy combined with their experience.
From something as seemingly simple as a dislocated finger or tennis elbow, to full shoulder reconstructions, finger tendon repairs, complex fractures, arthritic conditions, to nerve injuries such as carpal or radial tunnel syndromes, or those just experiencing discomfort or reduced function. Accredited hand therapists are the recognised experts in these areas for the most effective, efficient management and outcomes.
Common Hand and Wrist Conditions We Treat
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Tendon Injuries
Post Surgery Rehabilitation and Stiffness
Sports Related Hand and Wrist Issues
How Our Accredited Hand Therapists Help You Recover
Custom Splints and Exercise Programs
Your hand therapist may design a custom splint to protect healing tissue, maintain alignment or support better movement. Unlike generic, off-the-shelf options, custom splints are moulded to your exact anatomy, meaning they fit more comfortably, reduce pressure on sensitive areas and support faster, safer recovery. Exercise programs then build on this foundation, improving flexibility, coordination and functional strength.
Pain Management and Mobility Training
Your hand therapist uses manual therapy, modalities and targeted exercises to ease pain and restore mobility, offering a proactive alternative to pain medication or “just living with it.” Education is central to recovery and long-term control, so you clearly understand your particular injury or condition. We work towards your goals in developing a simple but effective home exercise program, and equip you with techniques to protect your hand and get back to the things you love.
Strength Building and Functional Recovery
Why Choose Health on High for Hand Therapy
Certified and Experienced Hand Therapists
At Health on High, you’ll work with the only clinic on the Mid North Coast with two Accredited Hand Therapists (AHTA). One of our therapists is the region’s only internationally Certified Hand Therapist [USA] and together they bring over 20,000 hours of direct upper limb treatment experience.
Their membership in elite professional groups and attendance at national and international conferences ensures your care is informed by the latest evidence and techniques.
Modern Equipment and Treatment Methods
Collaborative Care with Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists
Because hand therapy is closely linked to physiotherapy and occupational therapy, the team works collaboratively to coordinate care, communicate progress and ensure treatment plans are tailored to your lifestyle and goals.
Book Your Hand Therapy Appointment
If you’re experiencing hand or wrist pain, stiffness or difficulty completing everyday tasks, early assessment from a qualified hand therapist can make a significant difference.
Reclaim your daily tasks and hobbies with our fully accredited hand therapists [AHTA] in Coffs Harbour today!
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