Hand & Elbow Therapy
From typing and texting to lifting and throwing, we rely on our hands and elbows for nearly every task we do. When pain, injury, or surgery disrupts that ability, specialized hand and elbow therapy can help restore comfort and function. At Iowa Ortho, our certified hand therapists work closely with patients to develop customized plans that support recovery, strength, and mobility.
What Is Hand & Elbow Therapy?
Hand and elbow therapy is a specialized form of rehabilitation focused on treating conditions that affect the upper extremities—from fingers to the shoulder. Our experienced therapists use targeted techniques to help patients heal from injury, regain fine motor skills, reduce pain, and get back to daily life.
Common Conditions We Treat
Our hand and elbow therapy team works with patients experiencing:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
- Tendonitis and tendinopathy
- Fractures and dislocations
- Arthritis and joint degeneration
- Trigger finger
- Post-surgical recovery (e.g., tendon repair, joint replacement)
- Nerve injuries and entrapments
How Therapy Helps
Each patient receives a personalized plan that may include:
- Manual Therapy – Hands-on techniques to improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and promote healing. Therapeutic Exercises – Exercises to restore flexibility, grip strength, and range of motion.
- Splinting and Orthotics – Custom-fabricated splints to protect healing tissues or support movement. Scar Management – Techniques to reduce scar tissue and improve tissue mobility post-surgery.
- Pain and Swelling Control – Use of ice, compression, elevation, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation.
Why Choose Iowa Ortho for Hand & Elbow Therapy?
Our therapists are specially trained in upper extremity rehab and collaborate with Iowa Ortho’s orthopedic surgeons to provide seamless care. We focus on:
- Precision treatment tailored to the complexity of the hand and elbow
- One-on-one patient education to support home recovery
- Evidence-based methods for long-term improvement
When to Seek Therapy
If you’re experiencing numbness, pain, swelling, or difficulty with hand or elbow movement, early intervention can help prevent worsening symptoms and speed up healing. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or dealing with a repetitive strain injury, Iowa Ortho’s hand therapy team is here to help. falls and improve movement.is crucial. Iowa Ortho’s physical therapy team works closely with patients and their doctor to guide every step of the recovery journey.