How can I build strength in my hand?

Crozier1984
Crozier1984 Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
edited July 2024 in Housing and independent living
I have spina bifida and hydrocephalus, because of this I have a disability in my hand with little or no strength especially in the right hand. Does anyone have any ideas if I can or how I can build the strength  

Comments

  • Ami2301
    Ami2301 Online Community Member Posts: 7,877 Championing
    Hi @Crozier1984 welcome to the community!

    Sorry to hear this, has your GP suggested physiotherapy?
  • Crozier1984
    Crozier1984 Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    Yes, it didn't work. I'm 34 and it's never really bothered me until the other evening. I was doing some DIY with my father in law and couldnt push a trigger. Made me feel inadequate. My disability is quite mild to others so I shouldn't gripe. Just wish I had an answer 
  • Pippa_Alumni
    Pippa_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 5,761 Championing
    Hi @Crozier1984, and a warm welcome to the community! 

    Thanks for sharing this with us. I've moved your post into our Ask An OT community discussions where hopefully @Jean_Scope will be able to offer some guidance! 
  • Sam_Alumni
    Sam_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 7,602 Championing
    Hi @Crozier1984
    I echo Pippa's suggestion that Jean may be able to help.  But I would add that this is something you should probably seek medical advice about before starting any training or exercise.  Often doctors can offer some exercises or refer you to a physio.

    Do let us know how you get on :)
  • Crozier1984
    Crozier1984 Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    Thank you 
  • Jean_OT
    Jean_OT Online Community Member Posts: 511 Empowering
    Hi @Crozier1984

    Really the rehabilitation of specific muscle groups is more the role of a Physiotherapist, although there are OT's that do post-graduate training specifically in hand therapy. You could ask your GP if they would be willing to refer you to the hand therapy department at the hospital.

    If you have already had appropriate therapy and your hand function hasn't improved my approach as an OT would be to try to see if it is possible adapt the tools that you need to use so that you can depress the trigger. This isn't something that you will get from the NHS but charities like DEMAND and REMAP might be able to assist:
     https://www.demand.org.uk/
    https://www.remap.org.uk/

    For some people Dynamic Hand Splints can assist with grip. Again you would be unlikely to get this via the NHS. Private Companies like Second Skin can assess and supply to those that have the personal or charitable funds: https://www.secondskin.com.au/Products/dynamic_hand_splints

    Best Wishes

    Jean 


     

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