Hand Pain Physical Therapy Dutzow, MO. Hand therapy offered by Dutzow, MO physical therapists focuses on easing pain, restoring mobility, and getting you back to the activities that matter most.

When your hands hurt, everyday life gets difficult—from work and family tasks to hobbies and rest. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Dutzow, MO team delivers science-backed care designed around your needs and daily activities.

Whether your pain started suddenly from an injury or gradually from repetitive use, our licensed Dutzow, MO physical and occupational therapists will guide you with a personalized plan that reduces pain, improves motion and grip, and prevents the problem from coming back.

You can request an appointment, reach out to the nearest Axes location, or stop by for a free injury screening to get started.

What you’ll learn on this page

• Common reasons for ongoing or recurring hand pain.
• The ways physical therapy relieves pain and improves hand movement.
• Which types of hand problems Axes Physical Therapy can help with.
• The types of proven physical therapy techniques your plan may feature.
• Signs and symptoms that mean you should consult a hand therapy specialist.
• Why Dutzow, MO residents choose Axes Physical Therapy.

What Causes Hand Pain?

Hand pain can come from irritated tendons, inflamed joints, compressed nerves, stiff scar tissue, or irritated soft tissue.

Sometimes hand pain begins after an accident or procedure, but it’s often the result of ongoing strain, awkward positions, or conditions like arthritis. Our Dutzow, MO hand specialists identify the cause to build the most effective treatment plan.

• Overuse and repetitive strain: repeated gripping, typing, or tool work can inflame tendons and soft tissue, especially with excess phone use.
• Nerve compression: trapped nerves in the wrist or elbow can cause burning, numbness, or hand weakness.
• Arthritis and joint stiffness: inflammation and cartilage loss can make gripping or pinching painful and difficult.
• Sprains, strains, and fractures: soft tissue or bone injuries often cause swelling and loss of strength.
• Post-surgical limitations: after procedures for fractures, tendon repair, or carpal tunnel release, targeted rehab restores motion and strength safely.

At Axes, your Dutzow, MO physical therapist evaluates motion, strength, swelling, sensation, posture, mechanics, and daily demands. From that assessment, we build a personalized plan that targets your pain and supports your daily routine.

How Does Dutzow, MO Physical Therapy Help Hand Pain?

Physical therapy addresses painful tissue, improves joint and tendon glide, restores strength and dexterity, and teaches you how to move with less strain. Our aim is clear: less pain, greater movement, better strength, and confidence in everything you do.

• Reduce pain and inflammation: focused hands-on treatment and precise modalities help soothe irritated tissues and decrease discomfort.
• Restore mobility: joint and soft-tissue mobilization plus stretching improve range of motion and glide.
• Build strength and endurance: gradual resistance and targeted exercises improve both fine motor control and long-term muscle support.
• Improve function: your therapy includes practical movements—gripping, typing, or lifting—to rebuild comfort and coordination.
• Prevent recurrence: your therapist teaches lasting habits—proper ergonomics, pacing, and simple home care—to protect your progress.

Common Hand Pain Conditions Our Dutzow, MO Physical Therapists Treat

• Carpal tunnel syndrome—pressure on the median nerve in the wrist that leads to pain, tingling, or hand weakness.
• Tendonitis and tenosynovitis, such as De Quervain’s, cause pain and swelling around the thumb and wrist tendons.
• Trigger finger and overuse-related catching or locking.
• Dupuytren’s Contracture develops slowly, tightening the palm and limiting finger extension.
• Thumb (CMC) arthritis—a common cause of pain at the base of the thumb, along with other wrist arthritis conditions.
• Sprains and strains can occur after sudden twists, falls, or repetitive stress at work.
• Fractures and stiffness following a cast or splint often require therapy to restore motion.
• Post-surgical rehab supports healing and restores function following hand or wrist surgery.
• Ulnar nerve irritation and other nerve-related pain.

Even if you don’t see your exact condition listed, our Dutzow, MO therapists can assess your pain during a free injury screening and develop a personalized plan.

Hand Pain Treatment Options in Dutzow, MO

Each treatment plan is customized around your condition, goals, and comfort level. Our therapists guide you through each stage, making adjustments as you heal.

• Manual therapy: hands-on techniques that restore motion, reduce tightness, and ease discomfort.
• Nerve and tendon gliding exercises: promote healthy movement of tissues to reduce tingling, numbness, or tightness.
• Therapeutic exercise: progressive strengthening and control exercises for better grip, wrist support, and endurance.
• Splinting and bracing: designed to support injured areas, reduce pain, and promote safe movement.
• Modalities: as appropriate, options may include heat or cold, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to manage pain and promote healing.
• Dry needling: targets muscle trigger points to relieve tension and improve circulation.
• Edema management: manual and compression-based methods to limit swelling and promote healing.
• Ergonomics and activity modification: practical education on movement efficiency and posture to protect your hands.
• Home exercise program: customized exercises help maintain strength and flexibility between visits.

Each treatment plan includes one-on-one education. Our Dutzow, MO physical therapists help you understand why something hurts, making recovery faster and allowing you to feel more confident.

When Should I See a Hand Therapist in Dutzow, MO?

It’s smart to schedule an evaluation if:

• Pain, stiffness, or swelling lasts longer than a few days or keeps returning.
• Tingling, numbness, or pain that worsens during rest or nighttime hours.
• Grip or pinch strength is worsening.
• Everyday activities like typing, buttoning clothes, or lifting objects are becoming difficult.
• You’re in recovery after a recent hand injury or surgical procedure.

Addressing problems early prevents ongoing irritation and strain in nearby muscles and joints. When additional tests or referrals are required, our team will handle coordination with your physician.

What Does a Typical Hand Therapy Session Look Like?

After your initial evaluation, each session may include a mix of hands-on care, mobility work, and targeted strengthening. You’ll practice the movements and tasks that matter to you and leave with a short home routine that fits your schedule. When pain fades and mobility improves, your plan evolves to lock in your progress.

Read our guide on what happens at an Axes hand therapy appointment.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

It depends on the diagnosis, how long symptoms have been present, your general health, and how consistently you can follow your plan. Many patients notice meaningful improvement within a few visits.

Your therapist focuses on steady progress with clear goals and ongoing feedback so you can see your success.

Will I Need a Brace or Splint?

Sometimes. Short-term support can reduce irritation and protect healing tissue, especially with overuse injuries or after surgery. If a brace or splint is appropriate, we’ll ensure it fits your hand and task demands, and we’ll show you how and when to use it so you don’t lose motion or strength.

Can Physical Therapy Help if I’ve Had Hand Pain for Months?

Absolutely. Ongoing pain is often linked to tight joints and poor movement patterns that therapy can correct. A structured, progressive program can calm symptoms and rebuild capacity, even if you’ve “tried everything.” We’ll meet you where you are and move forward step by step.

How to Prevent Hand Pain From Coming Back

• Use neutral wrist positions for typing, mousing, and tool work.
• Pause for brief movement breaks when performing repetitive motions.
• Focus on building strength in the hand, wrist, and shoulder muscles for better support.
• Prepare your hands before demanding activity and stretch afterward.
• Continue your home exercises regularly to prevent symptoms from returning.

Little changes go a long way. Our therapists help you choose the habits with the greatest impact.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Dutzow, MO Hand Treatment?

• Local, patient-first care: friendly clinics across Greater St. Louis with convenient scheduling.
• Expert clinicians: highly trained Dutzow, MO therapists specializing in upper extremity rehabilitation and recovery.
• Evidence-based approach: your care is guided by the latest science and real patient results.
• Real-life results: therapy that helps you return to meaningful activities—whether it’s work, hobbies, or family time.
• Clear communication: we explain your condition and progress in plain language every step of the way.

Start Your Hand Pain Recovery With Our Dutzow, MO Physical Therapists Today

Your hands are essential to how you work, connect, and enjoy life. If hand pain is getting in the way, we’re here to help. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Dutzow, MO specialists provide personalized care that relieves pain, restores motion, and promotes lasting results.

Request an appointment online, call the Axes location nearest you, or come to any of our locations for a free injury screening to get started.

Let’s help your hands feel and perform their best so you can get back to doing what you love most.