A CT scan allows doctors to see detailed images of structures within the body to help identify sources of pain. They can provide more information about underlying conditions like arthritis or ligament tears. 

This test measures muscle electrical activity along with nerve conduction. It is measured with electrodes inserted into muscles near the hand or wrist. This test can help detect any abnormalities that might be causing pain. 

An MRI may be ordered to rule out other potential causes of hand or wrist pain like tumours or fractures that cannot be seen on an X-ray. 

This test measures nerve function. It allows doctors to determine whether there is nerve damage or compression that could contribute to hand or wrist pain. 

An ultrasound is used to identify soft tissue abnormalities such as cysts or ganglions. It can also identify structures causing pressure on nerves in the hand and wrist. 

An x-ray can be used to diagnose the potential causes of pain or stiffness in a patient's hand or wrist. It is used to assess the bones for fractures, and to check for chronic conditions such as arthritis. 

Exercise is provided specifically for rehabilitation post injury. This follows a detailed assessment by the hand therapist. Exercise is important as part of successful rehabilitation post injury or surgery. Exercise can also be used to maintain function and strength. 

Any injury to the hand or wrist can affect how you function in everyday life. This can include home life, work, and leisure activities. Your Hand Therapist will advise and guide you on how to return to these activities successfully throughout your recovery. 

Are used to improve mobility, function and to reduce swelling. 

Swelling post injury or surgery can affect the movement and function in the hand. Effective management can reduce swelling and aid recovery. 

Scar tissue is a natural part of the body’s healing process. Scarring can lead to reduced function in the hand or can lead to a sensitive, painful, or unsightly scar. Your therapist will assess and guide you with effective care for your scar. 

Splints can be fabricated from thermoplastic, neoprene, or plaster of Paris. Splinting offers a costumed bespoke design to protect and position an injury to facilitate healing. Splinting can also be used to rest painful joints, promote movement, prevent deformity, and enable functional use of the hand. Your therapist will discuss with you and provide a splint suitable for your clinical indications. 

The hand therapy team is skilled in wound care. This includes cleaning, dressing, removal of sutures and advice on wound management. All wound care is provided as per hospital protocols to reduce risk of infection and facilitate healing.

Treatment options for hand injuries and conditions vary depending on the specific diagnosis and severity of symptoms. They may include rest, immobilisation with splints or casts, physical therapy, medications (such as pain relievers or anti-inflammatories), steroid injections, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery. 

Surgery may be recommended for hand conditions that do not improve with conservative treatments or for injuries that require surgical intervention to restore function and stability. Common reasons for hand surgery include fractures, tendon injuries, nerve compression syndromes (such as carpal tunnel syndrome), arthritis, and soft tissue injuries. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition characterised by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Treatment options may include wrist splinting, activity modification or carpal tunnel release surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve. 

Trigger finger is a condition in which one of the fingers gets stuck in a bent position, causing pain, clicking, or locking when attempting to straighten it. Treatment options may include rest, splinting, steroid injections, or percutaneous release surgery to release the constriction in the affected tendon. 

Hand rehabilitation after surgery aims to restore strength, mobility, and function in the hand and fingers. It may include exercises, stretching, manual therapy, scar management, Edema control, sensory re-education, and functional activities to improve grip strength, dexterity, and range of motion. 

Recovery time after hand surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed, the severity of the condition, and individual factors such as age and overall health. Some patients may experience significant improvement shortly after surgery, while others may require several weeks or months to achieve full recovery and return to normal activities. 

Risks and complications of hand surgery may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, stiffness, weakness, scar formation, reduced sensation, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), or recurrence of the original condition. It is essential to discuss potential risks and benefits with your surgeon before undergoing any hand procedure. 

If you are awaiting a diagnosis from your GP, you may need a referral letter before you make an appointment. If you are referring for a physiotherapy consultation, you can contact us directly. Please see our Request Appointment Form here. 

Not all services are covered by health insurance. To find out if you're covered, please check your health insurance before your visit. You can do this on our health insurance Cover Check page here, or by contacting your health insurer.

If you do not have health insurance or your health plan does not cover the full cost, you will need to pay the balance due before your treatment or procedure. You may be able to claim back some fees on your insurance. To pay an excess not covered by your insurance or any other inpatient fees, please visit our payment page here. If you have any queries about paying for your care, please contact the finance team in your hospital.