What's happening at MHT this Month

Introducing

Melbourne Shoulder Therapy!

We’re excited to announce the launch of our brand new website
— Melbourne Shoulder Therapy!

New Website

Melbourne Shoulder Therapy is a dedicated arm of Melbourne Hand Therapy, focusing exclusively on the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of shoulder conditions. Our team of experienced shoulder therapists work closely with orthopaedic and sports medicine specialists to deliver expert, evidence-based care for everything for a range of shoulder conditions including, but not limited to:

New Website
New Website
  • Rotator cuff and tendon injuries 
  • Instability and dislocations
  • Labral and joint disorders
  • Post surgical rehabilitation
  • Neck related shoulder pain

Visit our new website to learn more about our specialist services, meet our team, and access helpful resources designed to support patients and referrers alike.

Dynamic Splinting for

Upper Limb Injuries

When stiffness or loss of movement develops after an upper limb injury, dynamic splinting can be an invaluable tool in restoring function and promoting recovery.

Dynamic splints use gentle, controlled tension — typically through elastic bands, springs or outriggers — to apply a low-load, prolonged stretch to stiff joints. Unlike static splints that simply hold a joint in one position, dynamic splints allow for active movement in the opposite direction, helping to remodel scar tissue, reduce joint contractures, and encourage more natural, functional use of the hand and arm.

Dynamic Splints

When Are Dynamic Splints Used?

Dynamic splinting is commonly used in the rehabilitation of:

  • Post-fracture stiffness (e.g. after wrist, elbow or finger fractures)
  • Tendon repairs (to allow controlled motion while protecting healing tissues)
  • Capsular tightness at the PIP or DIP joints
  • Nerve injuries requiring assistance with extension or flexion
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation following joint releases or tendon grafts

A Collaborative Approach

Each dynamic splint is custom-made by a hand therapist to suit the patient’s anatomy, stage of healing, and therapy goals. Adjustments to spring tension or elastic bands are made progressively as range of motion improves.

Dynamic splinting works best as part of a comprehensive therapy program — combining manual therapy, exercises, and patient education. Regular review ensures the splint continues to meet the patient’s evolving needs as recovery progresses.

Dynamic Splints
Celebrating Our Team

Novembers Star Member

Haley Field

With over 20 years of experience as a hand therapist, Haley Field brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. She has worked across both acute and chronic settings, collaborating closely with plastic and orthopaedic surgeons in public and private hospitals.

Haley has a particular passion for the rehabilitation of sporting injuries, drawing on her own background in elite sport. She enjoys working with local football and cricket clubs to help athletes return safely and confidently to the game they love.

Outside the clinic, Haley is an avid hiker and runner, and when she’s not on the trails, she’s usually chasing after her three kids or finding some quiet time with a good book.

“Haley is caring, compassionate and always encouraging with my therapy and progress. She is thoughtful and thinks of various ways to support my treatment and I have total confidence in her as a practitioner.”
– Veronica

“Haley has always given me exceptional care over many years. No problem is too small for her and I feel able to contact her as needed.
She is a lovely person and really cares for her clients.”
– Jenny

“Caring, dedicated and always greeted with a smile.”
– Rowena

Meet the Therapists

Now on the MST Website

Phillip Hughes

Dr. Phillip Hughes

Upper Limb Specialist
Yonali Alexander

Yonali Alexander

Upper Limb Specialist

Recognition Award

Nominate a Team Member

Have you experienced exceptional care or teamwork from someone at MHT? We’d love to hear about it.

Help us celebrate those who go above and beyond.

Nomination Form

Thank you for your continued trust in Melbourne Hand Therapy. We’re committed to delivering collaborative, evidence-based care for every patient, every season.
 
Let’s continue working together to restore function and confidence, one hand at a time!