Hand Physiotherapy: who is the specialist hand therapist and what it means to be an AIRM member

Hand Physiotherapy: who is the hand therapist and what it means to be an AIRM member

Hand physiotherapy is a rehabilitation specialty focused on the recovery of the hand, wrist and upper limb after trauma, surgery, fractures, tendinopathies or conditions that limit movement and strength. The hand is a complex structure in which bones, tendons, ligaments and nerves work together, so it is important to rely on a qualified professional.

Who is the hand therapist?

The hand therapist is a professional specialised in the assessment and treatment of conditions of the hand, wrist and fingers. Their work focuses on:

• recovering mobility
• reducing pain
• regaining strength
• improving function
• returning to daily, work and sports activities

They use specific techniques such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, joint mobilisations, functional re-education, custom splinting and education on the correct use of the hand.

Who is an AIRM-member hand therapist?

An AIRM-member hand therapist is a physiotherapist or occupational therapist who belongs to the Italian Association for Hand Rehabilitation (AIRM).

Being an AIRM member means:

• having advanced training on the upper limb
• following scientific guidelines and continuous updates
• being part of a national network of specialists
• delivering evidence-based treatments
• offering personalised, qualified rehabilitation paths

Why choose a specialised hand therapist?

The hand requires very specific skills. Choosing a specialised professional allows:

• a precise, targeted approach
• treatments suited to the condition
• faster, more effective recovery
• prevention of stiffness and relapses

What conditions does the hand therapist treat?

• wrist and finger fractures
• tendon injuries
• post-surgical hand
• trigger finger
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• De Quervain's syndrome
• thumb base osteoarthritis
• wrist sprains and instability
• TFCC injuries
• post-traumatic and post-immobilisation outcomes

Goal: using the hand again without pain

Hand rehabilitation aims to bring the patient back to daily life, work and sport without limitations. Choosing an AIRM-member hand therapist means choosing a highly qualified and safe path.

💡 The hand is one of the most precious tools of our body: recovering it correctly makes a real difference in quality of life.