Hand Therapy Explained: What Happens After the Surgeon Finishes?

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Every day we rely on our hands for the simplest tasks — typing, cooking, driving, even holding a coffee. But when injury or surgery affects the hand, wrist, or elbow, even basic activities can suddenly become impossible.

In this episode of Aussie Med Ed, Host and Orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Gavin Nimon sits down with Charlotte Nash, accredited hand therapist and occupational therapist, to explore the fascinating world of hand therapy and upper limb rehabilitation.

Charlotte explains how occupational therapists help patients rebuild meaningful function after injury — and why early rehabilitation can make the difference between full recovery and long-term stiffness or pain.

Hand Therapy- what is it

We cover:

• What occupational therapy actually is
• How hand therapists work with surgeons and GPs
• Why early movement and rehabilitation matter
• The surprising role of splints, desensitisation, and oedema control
• When injuries should be referred urgently
• The psychological side of recovery
• New technology in rehab including VR and 3D splinting

If you're a medical student, GP, or clinician managing upper limb injuries, this episode will give you a clearer understanding of what happens after the diagnosis and surgery — and how multidisciplinary rehabilitation helps patients get their lives back.

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