Wrist and Hand Physical Therapy in New York

Wrist & Hand Conditions We Treat

Here are some of the most common conditions we treat:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve, which runs down the forearm to the hand through a narrow passageway called the carpal tunnel, resulting in symptoms including  numbness, tingling, pain and weakness in the wrist and hand.
• Ganglion Cysts: These fluid-filled sacs can develop on the wrist or hand for no apparent reason and cause pain while limiting range of motion.
• De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: Inflammation of the tendons that run from the wrist to the thumb. It can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty with grasping or gripping objects.
• Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease reducing the amount of cartilage between joint spaces resulting in inflammation, pain, swelling and weakness.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder resulting in similar symptoms as Osteoarthritis.
• Tendinitis/Tendinosis: Inflammation of degeneration of the tendons in the hand and wrist. 
• Muscle Strains: Strains can occur in the muscles of the wrist and hand, usually from repetitive overuse or traumatic events.
• Ligament Sprains/Tears: Sprains can occur in the ligaments of the wrist and hand, resulting in instability and discomfort.
• Depuytren’s: A condition where the tissues beneath the skin on the palm of the hand thickens and tightens, causing the fingers to curl inward and making it difficult to straighten them.
• Trigger Finger: When the tendons in the fingers or thumb become inflamed, then thicken, causing them to catch or lock in a bent position.
• CMC Joint Disorders: The Carpometacarpal Joint (CMC) is the junction between the wrist and thumb. This is one of the most important joints in the hand. Disorders of the CMC joint can result in a significant decrease in overall function. 
• Boutonnière Deformity: A condition where the proximal joint of the fingers bends toward the palm while the distal joint bends backward.
• Mallet Finger: When the distal joint of the finger cannot be straightened due to a tendon injury.
• Smartphone Tendinitis: This is an emerging problem caused by repetitive overuse of smartphones, resulting in inflammation and pain in the wrist and hand.
• Fractures: Fractures occur most commonly from a fall, and in most cases will require a period of immobilization to allow the bones to heal, followed by a period of Physical Therapy.

At Lifestyle Physical Therapy, our expert therapists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of wrist and hand conditions. Our treatment plans include exercises, stretches, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat and ice to help reduce pain and improve mobility. We also work with patients to develop home exercise programs and ergonomic adjustments to prevent future injuries. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does wrist and hand physical therapy typically last?

Typically, treatment programs last for 4-8 weeks, but this can vary. Your therapist will discuss the expected duration of your program during your initial evaluation.

Can physical therapy help with post-surgical wrist or hand pain?

Yes, physical therapy is a crucial part of recovery following wrist or hand surgery. Your therapist will design a program to reduce pain, improve scar tissue mobility, and restore strength and function.

I'm an athlete. Can physical therapy help me recover from a wrist or hand injury?

Yes, physical therapy can be very beneficial for athletes. Our therapists can help you regain strength, flexibility, and coordination specific to your sport, allowing you to return to play safely and effectively.

What can I do at home to help my wrist or hand heal?

Resting your wrist or hand, and applying ice or heat packs can help manage pain and inflammation.  You can also use supportive braces or wraps as recommended by your therapist.

How can physical therapy help with arthritis pain in the hands?

Physical therapy can help manage arthritis pain in the hands by improving joint mobility, reducing inflammation, and strengthening the surrounding muscles.

How can physical therapy help with carpal tunnel syndrome?

Physical therapy can help alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation, improving nerve function, and strengthening the wrist muscles.

Will hand and wrist physical therapy hurt?

Physical therapy should not be painful. Our physical therapist will adjust the intensity of treatment to ensure your comfort. Some techniques may cause temporary discomfort, but this should subside quickly.

Can physical therapy help with repetitive strain injuries (RSI)?

Yes, physical therapy is highly effective in treating RSI. It can help reduce pain, improve flexibility, and strengthen the muscles involved in repetitive tasks.

What can I expect during my first physical therapy appointment?

During your first appointment, your physical therapist will:

• Conduct a thorough evaluation of your wrist and hand condition
• Discuss your medical history and symptoms
• Develop a personalized treatment plan
• Begin your initial treatment session

Contact us today at (212) 577-9313 to schedule a consultation for wrist and hand physical therapy in New York. Get started on your path to pain-free living.