Hand and Physical Therapy List
ATX Orthopedics in Austin, TX provides this list of recommended hand physical therapy providers to help patients get the best rehabilitation outcomes after hand and wrist surgery.
Why Hand Therapy Matters After Hand and Wrist Surgery
Hand therapy is one of the most important components of recovery after hand or wrist surgery. The hand is one of the most intricate and specialized structures in the human body — home to 27 bones, dozens of tendons, nerves, and blood vessels, all working in precise coordination. After surgery for conditions such as trigger finger, Dupuytren’s contracture, carpal tunnel syndrome, de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, or fractures of the hand and wrist, a structured therapy program helps restore motion, strength, and function while minimizing scarring and stiffness.
What Does a Hand Therapist Do?
Certified Hand Therapists (CHTs) and occupational therapists with hand therapy specialization provide customized rehabilitation programs that may include passive and active range-of-motion exercises, strengthening protocols, custom splinting and orthotic fabrication, edema (swelling) control, scar management techniques, and desensitization therapy for nerve-related symptoms. Their goal is to help patients return to work, daily activities, hobbies, and sports as quickly and safely as possible. For surgical patients at ATX Orthopedics, timely engagement with hand therapy — typically beginning within one to two weeks of surgery — is associated with better long-term outcomes and faster return to function.
When Should You Start Hand Therapy?
The timing of hand therapy depends on the procedure performed and your surgeon’s post-operative protocol. For many soft-tissue procedures such as trigger finger release, carpal tunnel release, and de Quervain’s release, therapy may begin within days of surgery to prevent stiffness. For bony procedures such as distal radius fracture repair or scaphoid fixation, therapy typically begins once the fracture has begun to heal, often at two to four weeks post-operatively. Dr. Amis will provide specific guidance on when to begin therapy and what to focus on during each phase of recovery.
How to Choose a Hand Therapist
Not all physical therapists have the same level of training in hand and upper extremity rehabilitation. We recommend seeking a therapist who has specific experience with post-surgical hand and wrist cases. Ideally, look for a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT), a credential that requires at least 4,000 hours of direct hand therapy practice and a passing score on a national examination. Many of the clinics listed above have therapists with this specialized credential and are familiar with the post-operative protocols used at ATX Orthopedics.
What to Bring to Your First Hand Therapy Appointment
At your first hand therapy visit, bring your post-operative instructions from ATX Orthopedics, a photo ID and insurance card, a list of your current medications, and any splints or braces provided at surgery. Your therapist will perform an initial evaluation of your range of motion, strength, and function, and will design a customized treatment plan based on your surgeon’s protocol and your individual goals. Most patients attend hand therapy two to three times per week and are also given a home exercise program to perform between sessions.
Scheduling and Insurance
Most insurance plans cover occupational therapy and physical therapy with a referral or prescription from your surgeon. ATX Orthopedics will provide a therapy referral at your post-operative appointment. If you have questions about coverage or which clinics are in-network for your plan, contact our office at 512-960-4590 and our team will be happy to assist you in finding a convenient, covered option near you.
ATX Orthopedics is proud to serve patients from Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Westlake, and all of Central Texas. We are committed to helping you access the highest quality hand and wrist rehabilitation care in your community. Call us at 512-960-4590 with any questions.
Related Articles & Resources
- Dupuytren’s disease
- trigger finger
- de Quervain’s tenosynovitis (mommy thumb)
- hand surgery and therapy services
Written by
Orthopedic Surgeon | Shoulder & Hand Specialist
Dr. Benjamin Amis is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder surgery, rotator cuff repair, shoulder replacement, and hand & wrist conditions. He sees patients at ATX Orthopedics in Austin, TX. View full bio →
