What is Hand Therapy Awareness Week?
Hand Therapy Week is an integrated national program supported by the Australian Hand Therapy Association.
Hand therapy awareness week bring forward the advantages of prevention and treatment procedures for patients who have been affected by an accident or trauma as well as other non-acute conditions.
Your Hand
Your hand is a delicate and finely crafted body part, designed to perform many critical functions within your life. Trauma can injure your hand causing reduced hand function and pain. It is important to ensure the best form of medical care is undertaken, and that post-injury or post-operative care by yourself and therapists is carried out effectively. Remember that an elective operation is also perceived by your hand as an injury, and the same care required of an injured hand will be necessary.
Effects of Injury / Operation
Following a hand injury or surgery, many changes take place in the hand. Tissue damage, bleeding and chemicals are released by cells and can cause swelling and pain. The swelling is in part an attempt by the body to heal itself.
The changes taking place in the hand deliver substances to the tissue required to heal, and many of the responses from the body to the injury are beneficial. However, other effects of the body’s response are counterproductive in the hand, and particular care is required to reduce these effects.
Swelling
Swelling causes stiffness in the hand due to the contracture of ligaments and the glueing together of tissues that are meant to glide over each other.
It is easier to prevent problems associated with swelling by early treatment and prevention, rather than treating the resulting stiffness later. Swelling can be reduced with the use of slings and specially designed compression devices. The hand may be splinted in a position intended to prevent ligament contracture, and therapy will be used to enhance motion and function in a carefully controlled manner.
Fractures and Splints
Following bone fractures or injuries of some tendons or ligaments, the hand may require special splint for some days or weeks. This splint is critical to getting the best result for your hand, and it is important to take Mr Jarrett’s and your hand therapist’s advice.
Dressings and Wound Care
Some wounds will require extensive and frequent dressings, while others will need minimal care. Please speak to our staff if you have questions and do keep in mind that we are here to support you and guide your wound care treatment.
Want to find out more?
If you would like more information on Hand Therapy please contact our rooms on 1300 527 738 or click here to email us.
You might also like to visit the website for Hands & All who are our onsite Hand Therapist for more information.