APPOINTMENT

Hand

Hand Conditions

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist. This nerve provides sensation to the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger, and also controls some of the small muscles in the hand. When compressed, it can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can develop gradually and often worsens over time if not treated appropriately.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Repetitive hand or wrist movements (typing, assembly work, tool use)
 Prolonged wrist flexion or extension
 Wrist fractures or arthritis
 Fluid retention from pregnancy or other medical conditions
 Diabetes, thyroid disorders, or inflammatory diseases
 Genetic predisposition (naturally smaller carpal tunnel)

Signs and Symptoms

Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger
 Hand or wrist pain that may radiate up the arm
 Weakness or clumsiness when gripping or holding objects
 Symptoms that worsen at night or with repetitive use
 A feeling of swelling in the fingers even when no swelling is visible

How We Help You Recover

At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our expert Occupational and Physical Therapists—including Certified Hand Therapists—offer personalized, non-surgical treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Our approach focuses on relieving pressure on the median nerve, reducing symptoms, and restoring full hand function.

Treatment may include:
 Custom wrist splinting to maintain neutral positioning, especially at night
 Nerve gliding exercises to promote nerve mobility
 Manual therapy to address soft tissue restrictions
 Ergonomic education and activity modification
 Strengthening and coordination exercises for hand function
 Post-operative rehabilitation if surgical release is performed

What is a Finger Dislocation?

A finger dislocation occurs when the bones in one of the finger joints are forced out of their normal alignment. This can happen in any of the joints of the finger but most commonly affects the middle joint (proximal interphalangeal joint, or PIP). Dislocations may stretch or tear ligaments, tendons, or joint capsules, and in some cases, can be associated with fractures or soft tissue damage.

Prompt treatment is essential to reduce pain, restore joint alignment, and prevent long-term stiffness or instability.

Causes of Finger Dislocations

Falls or direct impact to the hand
Sports injuries, especially in basketball, football, or volleyball
Hyperextension or twisting of the finger
Crush injuries or forceful blows
Previous finger injuries or joint instability

Signs and Symptoms

Visible deformity or abnormal angle of the finger
Swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the affected joint
Pain and difficulty moving the finger
Numbness or tingling if nerves are compressed
Reduced grip strength or difficulty using the hand
Joint stiffness or instability after the dislocation is corrected

How We Help You Recover

At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our experienced team of Occupational and Physical Therapists—including Certified Hand Therapists—provides expert care for finger dislocations. Whether you’ve recently sustained an injury or are recovering from a previous dislocation, we create a customized plan to restore movement, strength, and function.

Treatment may include:
Custom splinting to protect and support the healing joint
Range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness
Manual therapy to improve joint mobility and soft tissue flexibility
Progressive strengthening of the finger and hand muscles
Scar and swelling management
Education on safe return to activities and injury prevention

 

What is Jersey Finger?

Jersey finger is an injury that occurs when the flexor tendon—responsible for bending the tip of the finger—is forcefully pulled away from the bone. This usually happens when a player grabs another player’s jersey and the finger is suddenly extended while gripping. As a result, the tendon may tear or rupture, making it impossible to bend the fingertip. This injury most commonly affects the ring finger.

Jersey finger is considered a serious injury that typically requires prompt evaluation and treatment to prevent permanent loss of function.

Causes of Jersey Finger

Sudden forceful extension of a flexed finger, often during sports like football or rugby
Grabbing clothing or equipment that is pulled away quickly
Trauma to the palm-side of the fingertip
May also occur in work-related or accidental injuries involving forceful finger motion

Signs and Symptoms

Inability to bend the tip of the finger
Pain and tenderness along the palm-side of the affected finger
Swelling and bruising near the fingertip
A feeling of weakness when trying to grip or grasp objects
In some cases, a noticeable gap may be felt where the tendon has retracted

How We Help You Recover

Jersey finger typically requires surgical intervention to reattach the tendon, especially in complete tears. After surgery, rehabilitation plays a critical role in regaining finger strength, motion, and function. At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our team of Occupational and Physical Therapists—including Certified Hand Therapists—provides expert post-operative care tailored to your recovery timeline.

Your rehabilitation plan may include:
Custom protective splinting or orthosis to support tendon healing
A carefully staged exercise program to restore motion and prevent stiffness
Manual therapy to improve tissue mobility and reduce scar formation
Grip and strength training once healing progresses
Ongoing education on activity modifications and injury prevention

 

What is a Finger Fracture?

A finger fracture is a break in one or more of the bones (phalanges) of the fingers. These fractures can range from simple, non-displaced breaks to complex injuries involving joint surfaces, multiple fragments, or tendon damage. Finger fractures are common and can occur from sports injuries, falls, crush accidents, or direct trauma. Prompt and appropriate treatment is essential to restore proper alignment, motion, and function of the hand.

Causes of Finger Fractures

Direct impact or trauma to the finger
Falls onto an outstretched hand
Crush injuries from machinery, doors, or heavy objects
Sports-related accidents involving balls, equipment, or collisions
Twisting or bending forces applied to the finger

Signs and Symptoms

Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the finger
Bruising or discoloration
Deformity or unusual angle of the finger
Inability to bend or straighten the finger
Numbness or tingling if nerves are affected
Reduced grip strength or difficulty using the hand normally

How We Help You Recover

At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, we provide expert care for all types of finger fractures, from stable breaks to complex injuries requiring surgery. Our team of Occupational and Physical Therapists—including Certified Hand Therapists—will develop a personalized treatment plan to support healing, reduce stiffness, and restore optimal function.

Your treatment may include:
Custom splinting or protective orthosis to support bone healing
Range of motion exercises to prevent stiffness in surrounding joints
Strengthening and coordination activities once healing allows
Scar management and soft tissue mobilization if needed
Post-operative therapy in cases of surgical repair
Education on hand protection, return-to-work planning, and daily function

 

What is Osteoarthritis of the Hand?

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint condition where the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually wears down. In the hand, this can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased mobility in the fingers and thumb. Osteoarthritis most often affects the joints at the base of the thumb, the middle joints of the fingers (PIP joints), and the joints closest to the fingertip (DIP joints).

This condition tends to develop slowly over time and is more common with aging, previous injury, or repetitive use.

Causes of Osteoarthritis of the Hand

Natural wear and tear of joint cartilage with age
Previous trauma or fractures to the hand or fingers
Repetitive hand movements or overuse
Genetic predisposition
Other joint conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis

Signs and Symptoms

Joint pain and tenderness, especially after activity
Stiffness in the fingers, particularly in the morning or after rest
Swelling or bony enlargements around the affected joints
Reduced range of motion and difficulty gripping or pinching
Occasional joint instability or deformity in advanced cases

How We Help You Manage Osteoarthritis of the Hand

At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our expert Occupational and Physical Therapists—including Certified Hand Therapists—provide individualized treatment plans to reduce pain, improve function, and maintain hand strength.

Treatment may include:
Custom splints or braces to support and protect painful joints
Therapeutic exercises to maintain joint mobility and strengthen surrounding muscles
Manual therapy to reduce stiffness and improve circulation
Education on joint protection strategies and activity modifications
Pain management techniques including heat, cold, and modalities
Recommendations for adaptive equipment to ease daily tasks

 

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints, including those in the hands and wrists. Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, RA causes the body’s immune system to attack the joint lining, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and eventual joint damage. RA can affect multiple joints symmetrically and may cause significant impairment in hand function if untreated.

Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The exact cause is unknown but involves an autoimmune response
Genetic factors may increase susceptibility
Environmental triggers such as infections or smoking may contribute
RA commonly begins in middle age but can affect people of all ages

Signs and Symptoms

Persistent joint pain and swelling in the hands and wrists
Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
Warmth and redness around affected joints
Fatigue and general feeling of illness
Reduced grip strength and difficulty performing fine motor tasks
Joint deformities in advanced cases

How We Help You Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis

At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our skilled Occupational and Physical Therapists—including Certified Hand Therapists—work closely with you to reduce pain, preserve joint function, and improve your quality of life.

Treatment may include:
Custom splinting to support and protect inflamed joints
Range of motion and strengthening exercises tailored to your condition
Manual therapy to maintain mobility and reduce stiffness
Education on joint protection techniques and activity modification
Pain management strategies including heat, cold, and therapeutic modalities
Collaboration with your medical team to support overall care

 

What is a Mallet Finger?

Mallet finger is an injury to the tendon that straightens the tip of the finger. It typically occurs when the fingertip is forcefully bent, often due to a sudden impact such as being hit by a ball. This injury causes the fingertip to droop and prevents you from actively straightening it. If not treated properly, mallet finger can lead to permanent deformity or loss of function.

Causes of Mallet Finger

Direct trauma to the fingertip, commonly in sports like baseball, basketball, or volleyball
Forceful flexion of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint
Cuts or lacerations to the back of the fingertip affecting the tendon (in more severe cases)

Signs and Symptoms

Inability to straighten the fingertip
Drooping of the tip of the finger, even when the rest of the finger can move normally
Swelling and tenderness at the tip of the finger
Bruising or redness at the site of the injury
In some cases, the bone may be pulled away with the tendon (bony mallet)

How We Help You Recover

At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our team of Occupational and Physical Therapists—including Certified Hand Therapists—provides expert care for mallet finger injuries. Timely and proper treatment is essential for optimal recovery and to avoid long-term complications such as joint stiffness or permanent deformity.

Your treatment plan may include:
Custom splinting to hold the fingertip in extension for 6 to 8 weeks while the tendon heals
Monitoring to ensure the tendon stays properly aligned during healing
Gradual reintroduction of movement under therapist guidance once healing is confirmed
Therapeutic exercises to restore range of motion, strength, and function
Education on protecting the healing tendon and avoiding re-injury

What is Trigger Finger or Trigger Thumb?

Trigger finger (or trigger thumb) is a condition that affects the tendons in the fingers or thumb, making it difficult to bend or straighten the affected digit smoothly. It occurs when the flexor tendon, which helps bend the finger, becomes irritated and inflamed. This inflammation can cause the tendon to catch or lock as it moves through the tendon sheath, leading to a popping or clicking sensation. In more severe cases, the finger or thumb may lock in a bent position and require manual assistance to straighten.

Causes of Trigger Finger/Thumb

Repetitive gripping or forceful hand use
Prolonged use of tools or devices that strain the hand
Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes
Thickening or narrowing of the tendon sheath due to overuse or age-related changes

Signs and Symptoms

Catching or popping when moving the finger or thumb
Stiffness, especially in the morning
Tenderness or a small lump at the base of the affected finger or thumb
Finger or thumb locking in a bent position
Pain when straightening or bending the affected digit

How We Help You Recover

At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our experienced team of Occupational and Physical Therapists—including Certified Hand Therapists—offers effective, non-surgical treatment for trigger finger and thumb. Early intervention is key to preventing the condition from worsening or becoming permanently fixed.

Your personalized treatment plan may include:
Custom splinting to rest and protect the affected tendon
Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises
Manual therapy to reduce tightness and inflammation
Activity modification and ergonomic education
Therapeutic modalities to relieve pain and promote healing

 

 

What is Boutonnière Deformity?

Boutonnière deformity is a finger condition where the middle joint (PIP joint) is flexed (bent downward) and the fingertip joint (DIP joint) is hyperextended. This deformity occurs when the central slip of the extensor tendon—responsible for straightening the middle joint—is damaged or torn. Without proper function of this tendon, the lateral bands of the extensor mechanism shift, causing an imbalance in how the finger moves. Over time, this can lead to a fixed deformity that interferes with hand function.
Boutonnière deformity can develop suddenly from trauma or gradually as a result of underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Causes of Boutonnière Deformity

Direct injury or forceful blow to the top of a bent finger
Untreated or improperly managed central slip injury
Deep cuts or lacerations to the back of the finger
Chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis that weaken the tendon system
Ligament imbalance or joint instability over time

Signs and Symptoms

Inability to straighten the middle joint of the finger (PIP)
Hyperextension of the fingertip joint (DIP)
Pain and swelling over the top of the middle joint
Difficulty performing tasks that require grasping, pinching, or extending the finger
Deformity may develop over days or weeks after an injury if untreated

How We Help You Recover

Early identification and proper management of boutonnière deformity are essential to prevent long-term stiffness and loss of function. At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our experienced team of Occupational and Physical Therapists—including Certified Hand Therapists—provides expert care tailored to your specific needs, whether your condition is recent or has been present for some time.
Your treatment may include:
Custom splinting to hold the PIP joint in extension while allowing movement at other joints
A progressive exercise program to restore motion and balance in the tendon system
Manual therapy and stretching to address stiffness and tightness
Scar management and soft tissue mobilization for post-injury healing
Post-operative rehabilitation, if surgery was necessary to correct the deformity

 

What is Swan Neck Deformity?

Swan neck deformity is a condition where the finger bends abnormally at the joints, causing the middle joint (proximal interphalangeal or PIP joint) to hyperextend (bend backward) and the fingertip joint (distal interphalangeal or DIP joint) to bend downward (flex). This creates a distinctive “S”-shaped appearance. The deformity can make it difficult to bend the middle joint and impair hand function such as gripping or pinching.

Swan neck deformity can develop due to trauma, arthritis, or ligament laxity, and often progresses gradually.

Causes of Swan Neck Deformity

Injury to the finger ligaments or tendons
Rheumatoid arthritis causing joint inflammation and ligament weakening
Untreated mallet finger leading to imbalance in finger mechanics
Generalized ligament laxity or hypermobility
Nerve injuries that affect muscle control around the finger joints

Signs and Symptoms

Hyperextension of the middle joint (PIP)
Flexion (bending) of the fingertip joint (DIP)
Difficulty bending the middle joint fully
Finger stiffness and swelling if arthritis is involved
Loss of grip strength and reduced hand function
Finger may appear “S”-shaped or like a swan’s neck

How We Help You Recover

At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our skilled Occupational and Physical Therapists—including Certified Hand Therapists—provide comprehensive care for swan neck deformity. Early intervention can help reduce symptoms, slow progression, and improve finger function.

Treatment may include:
Custom splinting to support the finger in a functional position and prevent hyperextension
Therapeutic exercises to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve joint control
Manual therapy to reduce stiffness and improve mobility
Education on joint protection techniques and activity modifications
Post-operative rehabilitation following surgery, if required

 

What is a Thumb UCL Injury?

A Thumb UCL (ulnar collateral ligament) injury involves damage to the ligament on the inner side of the thumb’s metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint. This ligament is essential for stabilizing the thumb during activities like pinching, gripping, and holding objects. When injured, it can lead to pain, weakness, and joint instability.

Two common terms used to describe UCL injuries are Skier’s Thumb and Gamekeeper’s Thumb. Skier’s Thumb refers to an acute injury, often from a sudden fall where the thumb is forcefully pulled away from the hand—commonly seen in skiing accidents. Gamekeeper’s Thumb describes a more chronic or repetitive injury to the same ligament, often seen in people performing repeated pinching or twisting motions.

Causes of Thumb UCL Injuries

Sudden force pulling the thumb away from the hand (abduction), such as falling while holding a ski pole
Direct trauma to the thumb during sports or daily activities
Repetitive stress and overuse from tasks involving frequent pinching or twisting
Previous thumb sprains or untreated ligament injuries

Signs and Symptoms

Pain and swelling at the base of the thumb
Tenderness over the inner side of the thumb joint
Weakness or instability when pinching or gripping
Bruising or visible swelling at the MCP joint
Reduced thumb motion or difficulty holding objects
A sense of looseness or the thumb “giving way”

How We Help You Recover

At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our expert team—including Certified Hand Therapists—specializes in diagnosing and treating thumb UCL injuries. Whether your injury is recent (Skier’s Thumb) or more chronic (Gamekeeper’s Thumb), we provide a personalized, step-by-step plan to help restore your thumb’s strength, stability, and function.

Treatment may include:
Custom-made thumb spica splinting to protect the ligament and promote healing
Manual therapy and gentle mobilization to reduce stiffness
Strengthening and range-of-motion exercises as healing progresses
Education on joint protection and ergonomics to prevent re-injury
Post-surgical rehabilitation when operative repair is required

 

What is Dupuytren’s Contracture?

Dupuytren’s contracture is a hand condition that causes thickening and tightening of the fascia—a layer of tissue just beneath the skin in the palm. Over time, this tissue forms nodules and cords that can pull the fingers into a bent position, making it difficult or impossible to fully straighten them. It most commonly affects the ring and little fingers and usually develops gradually.

Although Dupuytren’s contracture is not typically painful, it can significantly impact hand function, making everyday tasks like shaking hands, putting on gloves, or placing your hand flat on a surface more difficult.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture is not fully understood, but several risk factors are associated with its development, including:
Family history of the condition
Northern European ancestry
Age (most commonly affects individuals over 50)
Male gender
Certain health conditions such as diabetes or seizure disorders
Smoking and alcohol use

Signs and Symptoms

Thickened, cord-like bands or firm nodules in the palm
Fingers gradually bending toward the palm (most often the ring and little fingers)
Loss of finger extension and reduced hand function
Difficulty performing tasks that require the hand to open fully
Painless progression, although some early tenderness may occur

How We Help You Manage Dupuytren’s Contracture

While Dupuytren’s contracture cannot be cured, early treatment can help manage symptoms, improve hand function, and slow the progression of contractures. At Hand Rehabilitation Specialists, our experienced therapists develop individualized treatment plans that may include:
Splinting to maintain finger extension and prevent further contracture
Soft tissue mobilization and stretching techniques
Exercises to preserve flexibility and hand strength
Post-operative therapy (if surgery or injections are performed) to restore motion and function
Education on protecting hand function and managing flare-ups