Hand Therapy Explained: What Happens After the Surgeon Finishes?

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 itWe 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 splintingIf 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. 🎙️ Proudly Supported By Our SponsorsAussie Med Ed is independent and free — made possible by these amazing Australian organisations. Heidi Health — AI medical scribe built for Australian clinicians. Finish clinic on time and keep your focus on your patients. Visit Heidi HealthHealthShare — Australia's health information and referral platform, connecting GPs, specialists and patients. Visit HealthShareAvant Medical Defence Organisation — Protecting over 80,000 Australian healthcare professionals. Visit AvanteMedici -an Australian-made medical education platform for med students, junior doctors, and IMGs. Visit eMedici.com/MEDEDBetter Medical- GP clinics across QLD, SA, VIC and TAS – offering you the freedom to practise your way, backed by a strong support network. Visit BetterMedicalThanking the organisations that make Aussie Med Ed possible. Visit our full Sponsors page