Hand & upper extremity physical therapy

Hand therapy is a specialized type of physical therapy or occupational therapy focused on any part of the upper extremities, including the shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands or fingers.

Hand therapy can help you maintain, improve or regain the function of your hands and arms – from buttoning a shirt to typing and other daily tasks. Hand therapists provide preventive care, rehabilitation after surgery, nonsurgical care and advice.

What to expect with hand therapy

An Aurora hand therapist will work with you one-on-one to evaluate your needs and identify your goals.

Your hand therapy might include:

• Using tape or custom orthotics (support splints or braces)
• Learning techniques to manage swelling and tenderness
• Doing strengthening exercises
• Learning about wound and scar care
• Learning how to conserve energy and protect your joints
• Using devices or equipment to improve function

Your doctor and therapist will recommend a customized treatment plan, including how often you should go to therapy. Most people see the hand therapist once or twice a week for about 45 minutes to 1 hour per session.

Specialized hand therapy expertise

Problems with the upper extremities – hands, wrists, elbows and shoulders – are challenging. Hand therapists can help, thanks to their advanced study and experience in improving the function of the fingers, hands and arms.

Our hand therapists have completed advanced training in physical therapy or occupational therapy. Certified hand therapists (CHTs) have thousands of hours of additional, specialized experience in upper extremity rehabilitation.

Read more about our treatments for elbow, wrist and hand pain.

Integrated occupational therapy treatments

Our hand therapists are part of a dedicated team of orthopedic physical therapists, including occupational therapists. Together, therapists work with your doctors and surgeons to create a personalized treatment and rehabilitation plan. Thanks to this level of coordinated care, you’ll be well on your way to performing daily activities with ease.

Occupational therapy helps you regain the ability to do the things that matter to you. Learn more about occupational therapy at Aurora.

Find a hand & upper extremity physical therapist

Use our search tool to find the specialist who’s right for you. 

Find a specialist