Jennifer Mathias
MHT Director
Senior Clinician
This month’s newsletter is focusing on all things WRISTS. It may be interesting to our patients who read this newsletter, how many hours and years that we spend studying such a small body part consisting of 8 small carpal bones and approximately 33 ligaments.
Melbourne Hand Therapy prides itself on providing clinical expertise in wrist rehabilitation. This is highlighted by our therapists presenting at International Surgeon’s Wrist Conferences, AHTA conferences and Victorian Hand Surgeon’s meetings.
All our team members undergo further training in WRISTS. This is largely founded on the latest research in this specialised area. We are forever learning this complex structure. We spend our time reviewing literature, working closely with surgeons, participating in surgery and seeing hundreds of patients each year.
Wrist proprioception refers to the ability of the wrist to sense its position, movement, and force. This complex system plays a crucial role in maintaining fine motor control and stability, particularly after injury. Research by Prof Elisabet Hagert, Hand Surgeon has shed light on the importance of proprioception in wrist rehabilitation, emphasizing the need for targeted strategies to restore function effectively.
What is Proprioception?
Proprioception is the body’s ability to perceive its own movement and position without relying solely on vision. It involves specialised sensory receptors, known as mechanoreceptors, located in the muscles, ligaments, and joint capsules. These receptors provide feedback to the brain, allowing for coordinated and controlled movements.
“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.”
– Albert Einstein
The latest research highlights the intricate proprioceptive network of the wrist, particularly in the ligaments, which contain a high density of mechanoreceptors. These receptors help regulate muscle activity and ensure precise control of wrist movements. After an injury, such as a ligament sprain, fracture, or post-surgical recovery, proprioceptive feedback may be compromised, leading to instability, impaired coordination, and increased risk of re-injury.
Effects of Wrist Injury on Proprioception
Following a wrist injury, the loss of proprioceptive input can result in:
Rehabilitating Wrist Proprioception
Rehabilitation programs need to specifically target proprioceptive recovery. The following strategies can help improve wrist proprioception after injury:
1. Sensory Re-education Exercises
2. Neuromuscular Training
3. Progressive Resistance Exercises
4. Functional Training
Melbourne Hand Therapy sessions prioritise proprioceptive rehabilitation so our patients can regain wrist stability, coordination, and overall function, reducing the risk of re-injury and promoting optimal recovery.
We are thrilled to welcome Diana to our team. Diana is a compassionate hand therapist with a strong educational background. She has worked in both public and private healthcare settings across Melbourne’s southeast. She is dedicated to delivering holistic, patient-centred care to help each individual regain function and return to the activities they love.
You will find Diana at our:
Sharyn
Exceptional service at Melbourne Hand Therapy. Practitioner Cat is professional, highly skilled, kind and funny, making a tough time a lot easier. Reception staff are efficient and always accommodating where possible. Great service, highly recommended.
Fiona
Expert and friendly therapy. I feel more hopeful that surgery may be postponed or even avoided.
Kaye
Max of Deepdene has been excellent. Very professional very caring person. My hands are starting to improve.
