Hand therapy is specialised rehabilitation for the hand, wrist, and forearm after injury, surgery, or illness. In Sri Lanka, patients often start after fractures, tendon repairs, nerve injuries, burns, or stiffness from immobilisation.
Your first session
A typical first visit includes history, observation of swelling and scars, range-of-motion checks, strength and sensation screening when safe, and goal setting for work, self-care, and sport. Sessions commonly last 45–60 minutes.
Core treatment building blocks
- Edema control — elevation, gentle compression, and active movement when medically allowed, because swelling delays motion and increases stiffness risk.
- Protected motion — early, protocol-guided movement after many tendon and fracture repairs improves tendon glide and joint nutrition while protecting repairs.
- Custom splinting — thermoplastic orthoses rest healing tissues, correct deformity, or support night positioning.
- Scar and soft-tissue care — once wounds are closed, massage, silicone, and desensitisation reduce adherence and hypersensitivity.
- Home exercise program — short, frequent daily practice usually outperforms occasional long sessions.
How long recovery takes
Timelines vary. Many uncomplicated hand injuries need about 6–12 weeks of structured therapy. Complex tendon repairs, nerve injuries, and burn contractures often need months of guided care. Bone healing, surgical protocols, diabetes, smoking, and adherence all influence outcomes.
What you can do between visits
Follow splint wear schedules exactly, do prescribed reps without forcing through sharp pain, keep dressings clean and dry as instructed, and contact your therapist if swelling, colour, or numbness suddenly worsens.
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.