Hand Therapy

Specialized Care for the Hand, Wrist, and Upper Extremity

Your hands and wrists are essential to nearly everything you do from work and daily tasks to hobbies and sports. When pain, stiffness, or injury limits function, specialized therapy can help restore strength, mobility, and confidence.

At Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin, our hand therapy programs focus on targeted, personalized care to help patients recover successfully and return to the activities that matter most.

See Our Hand Therapist

Catherine Van Zile, PT, DPT, FAAOMPT

Catherine Van Zile, PT, DPT, FAAOMPT
Physical Therapy

Request an Appointment

GET STARTED WITH A CONSULTATION

request an appointment Call (512) 476-2830

What is Hand Therapy?

Hand therapy is a specialized form of rehabilitation that focuses on conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and upper extremity. Hand therapy is provided by a physical or occupational therapist to improve function, reduce pain, and support recovery after injury or surgery.

Our hand therapist works with our physicians to ensure a coordinated, seamless approach to care from diagnosis through return to activity.

Conditions We Treat

We provide expert care for a wide range of hand and upper extremity conditions, including:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

  • Trigger finger

  • Tendon injuries and tendonitis

  • Arthritis of the hand and wrist

  • Fractures and dislocations

  • Ligament injuries

  • Post-surgical rehabilitation

  • Nerve injuries and compression syndromes

  • Sports and overuse injuries

When to Consider Hand Therapy

  • Limited movement, stiffness, or weakness in your fingers, hands, or wrists

  • Pain after an injury, fracture, or surgery

  • Tendon or nerve injuries (including carpal tunnel or trigger finger)

  • Swelling, numbness, or tingling in the hands or forearms

  • Difficulty performing daily tasks or work-related activities

Comprehensive, Personalized Treatment

Every patient receives a customized therapy plan based on their condition, lifestyle, and recovery goals.

Treatment may include:

  • Post-surgical rehabilitation (e.g., tendon repair, fracture, joint surgery)

  • Nerve injury therapy (e.g., carpal tunnel or cubital tunnel syndrome)

  • Tendon and ligament injury rehabilitation

  • Swelling and scar management

  • Work-related injury rehabilitation and ergonomic education

  • Custom orthosis fabrication

  • Pain management strategies

  • Activity modification and education

​​​​​​​Our goal is to improve function, reduce discomfort, and support long-term recovery.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

Your initial appointment includes a thorough evaluation to understand your condition and goals.

You can expect:

  • Review of your symptoms and medical history

  • Assessment of strength, motion, and function

  • Discussion of daily activities and limitations

  • A personalized therapy plan designed for your recovery

Why Choose Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin for Hand Therapy

At OSA, patients benefit from:

  • Specialized hand and upper extremity therapy

  • A collaborative approach between therapists and physicians

  • Individualized care plans tailored to your goals

  • Advanced techniques to support faster recovery

  • A focus on long-term function and mobility

Take the Next Step Toward Recovery

If hand or wrist pain limits your daily activities, early treatment can make a meaningful difference.
​​​​​​​
Schedule your appointment today to begin a personalized hand therapy plan and get back to doing what you love.

request an appointment Call (512) 476-2830

FAQs

Do I need a referral for hand therapy?

In the state of Texas, patients can receive physical therapy for up to 30 consecutive calendar days without needing a referral. This is known as direct access. However, insurance coverage policies vary with direct access. Our team can help guide you through the process.

How long does hand therapy take?

The length of therapy varies depending on your condition and goals. Your therapist will establish a treatment plan during your initial evaluation. This plan involves discussion of an estimated timeline for your rehabilitation program.

Will I need therapy after hand surgery?

Yes, therapy is often an important part of recovery after hand surgery. It helps restore motion, strength, and function while supporting optimal healing.

Is it normal for my hand to swell after activity/exercise?

Swelling in your hand after certain activities or exercises can be normal due to increased blood flow to the area or based on your current stage of healing after surgery. Your therapist can discuss expected occurrences of swelling based on your condition and activity modifications as needed.

What Our Patients Say

Read Reviews

Dr. Seade did an excellent job on my torn rotator cuff repair! He also had to remove a bone spur and reattach my bicep muscle! My recovery has went very well and after 12 weeks I finally get to start strength training on my left shoulder and arm! I will be back barrel racing in no time!

LeAnn N.

I injured my shoulder over three years ago and had surgery to fix it (by a different physician). It just got progressively worse and I lived through it for three years.  I finally went to see Dr Seade for a full regular shoulder replacement.  It was an amazing experience!!!  He and his team are phenomenal!  I am going into the third month post surgery and doing strong in my PT.  The pain level is low, only sore muscles when I am doing PT.  A beautiful pain and I am on the trajectory to being me again!  Thanks to Dr. Seade and his amazing team!!!

Florence M.

Let me just tell you that if you need shoulder surgery there is only one place to go and that's Dr. Eddie Seade @ Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin. Dr. Seade and his entire staff take the cake when it comes to thoroughly lining out expectations, attention to details, detailed follow up and making sure that they answer all of your questions. Would not go anywhere else!!

Randy D.

Dr. Catlett took the time to explain the process of hip replacement and the robotics used He made my daughter and I very comfortable and confident with the procedure my daughter and granddaughter also will be having surgeries by these drs I would recommend them to anyone

Patient

Have you ever had a doctor send you emails every few days before and after a procedure? No? What about to encourage you, check to see how you’re doing, or instruct you on what physical therapy would be best to start at home after your surgery? No? Then you’re working with the wrong doctor! Dr. Seade was proactive in reaching out- And it was greatly appreciated I have already highly recommended him to a few of my friends and acquaintances. I can’t speak highly enough about the confidence he gave me before during and after my procedure, thank you.

Kathleen V.