Hand Therapy
The number of people with hand disorders is very high. A hand that does not function properly—both in terms of motor skills and sensation—often leads to total or partial disability. Even a relatively minor functional impairment can make certain tasks nearly impossible, which can have far-reaching consequences for a person’s life. The treatment of conditions affecting the hand, wrist, forearm, and/or elbow must be carried out with the highest possible level of expertise. This requires the treating hand therapist to possess specialized knowledge and skills. This applies both as a follow-up course of treatment after surgery and for conditions that do not require or cannot be treated surgically.
The following conditions can be treated by a hand therapist:
- Orthopedic conditions of the hand;
- Peripheral neurological disorders of the hand;
- Rheumatic conditions of the hand;
- Knee pain;
- Fractures, tendon injuries, nerve damage, osteoarthritis, overuse injuries, amputation, and burns.
What is the difference between a general physical therapist and a hand therapist?
After completing their physical therapy training, hand therapists go on to earn an additional master’s degree that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of hand and wrist conditions.
Treatment by a hand therapist may involve treating muscles, tendons, bones, joints, nerves, and the skin. Functional limitations can also be treated.
The hand therapist is also experienced in applying splints and restricting movement for certain hand conditions. Splint therapy involves the use of a custom-made splint to support the movement of a joint in the hand or wrist or to protect the damaged structure.
The physical therapist
Our physical therapist specializes in hand therapy and is a member of the Dutch Trauma Rehabilitation Network.
Are you looking for a physical therapist in Hoofddorp who specializes in conditions affecting the elbow, wrist, hand, and fingers? Our hand specialist will be happy to help you move safely again.