What should you know about grip hand therapy?

A hand therapist looks at grip force, finger and wrist movement, swelling, pain, sensation, coordination, and the tasks that matter to you. Treatment may be relevant after a distal radius fracture or for conditions such as hand osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, De Quervain's tenosynovitis, or Dupuytren's contracture.

The plan may include gentle mobility, strengthening with graded resistance, tendon or nerve gliding, splint advice, scar care, and practice with work or household activities. Exercises should match healing stage; pushing through sharp pain or increasing swelling can delay progress.

Tell the therapist which objects you drop, which grips hurt, and when symptoms appear. Follow the prescribed frequency and record changes in pain, swelling, endurance, and dexterity. Use pacing: alternate demanding hand tasks with lighter activities and adjust tool handles or positions when advised.

If numbness, night symptoms, or persistent weakness points to nerve compression, assessment may guide whether hand therapy is enough or whether a procedure such as carpal tunnel release should be discussed. Dupuytren's surgery is considered separately when contracture limits function.

Arrange assessment for new or worsening weakness, ongoing swelling, loss of motion, or pain that limits dressing, writing, cooking, or work. Seek urgent care after an injury if the finger or wrist looks deformed, becomes pale or blue, loses sensation, or cannot move.

What is limiting my grip: pain, stiffness, tendon trouble, joint change, or nerve symptoms? Which exercises are safe now? Should I use a splint, and what changes mean I should pause therapy or return for review?