Edema (swelling) stretches tissues, increases pain, and accelerates stiffness. Controlling it early is one of the highest-value steps in hand rehabilitation.
Methods therapists use
- Elevation — hand above heart level when resting, especially in the first days.
- Compression — cohesive wraps or garments applied without cutting off circulation; fingertips should stay warm and pink.
- Active motion — gentle pumping movements when allowed help venous and lymphatic return.
- Cold therapy — sometimes used early if circulation is intact and wounds allow; follow clinician timing.
What not to do
Do not hang the arm down for long periods, sleep with the hand dangling, or wrap so tightly that numbness or blue colour appears. Heat can worsen acute edema.
Seek urgent care if
Swelling is rapidly increasing with severe pain, fever, pus, or sudden sensory loss — these can signal infection or compartment-type emergencies.
Educational information only. It does not replace assessment by a qualified clinician. Seek urgent care for severe pain, infection signs, sudden loss of sensation, or circulation changes.
Need hand therapy in Sri Lanka? REKA offers sessions at Asiri Hospital Galle, Delta Hospital Ambalangoda, Hemas Hospital Thalawathugoda, and Ruhunu Hospital channeling. Book via doc.lk, eChannelling (D12278), WhatsApp, or the contact form on handtherapy.lk.