What's New — Hand Therapy — October 2025¶

29 new articles published this month.

Themes: Therapeutic Modalities and Interventions · Rehabilitation Protocols and Outcomes · Technology, Telehealth, and Digital Tools · Assessment Tools and Psychometrics · Special Populations and Systemic Conditions

Digest generated 2026-04-15 23:52:19+00:00.

Highlights¶

Therapeutic Modalities and Interventions¶

This cluster explores the efficacy of various physical agents and therapeutic techniques in hand rehabilitation. Research investigates the optimal duration of superficial heat for range of motion [1], the impact of dry needling on interossei tightness [10], and the comparative effectiveness of kinesiologic taping versus high-intensity laser therapy for lateral elbow tendinopathy [7]. Additionally, studies examine the role of mirror therapy and laser therapy in managing Complex Regional Pain Syndrome [17], while another evaluates motor imagery as a tool to improve functionality and reduce kinesiophobia in distal radius fracture recovery [26]. These articles collectively highlight evidence-based approaches to pain management and functional restoration.

Rehabilitation Protocols and Outcomes¶

Articles in this theme focus on specific rehabilitation protocols and their long-term outcomes for diverse pathologies. Key studies include a case series on progressive therapy following radial forearm free flap reconstruction [2], a scoping review on rehabilitation after distal triceps repair [14], and a randomized controlled trial comparing active motion versus early passive mobilization for zone II flexor tendon repairs [22]. The cluster also covers nonoperative management of Boutonniere deformity [21], long-term sensory-motor rehabilitation for focal hand dystonia [16], and the use of traction orthotics for extra-articular phalangeal fractures [4]. These works provide critical insights into timing, technique, and prognosis in post-surgical and non-surgical care.

Technology, Telehealth, and Digital Tools¶

This theme addresses the integration of modern technology and digital platforms in hand therapy practice. Surveys assess therapists' perceptions of telerehabilitation and technology usage [5], while other studies evaluate virtual reality environments for prosthesis control training [3]. Experimental work compares cocontraction methods for myoelectric prosthetic control [23], and novel wearable technology is applied to quantify reach-and-grasp practice in stroke rehabilitation [25]. Furthermore, a systematic review appraises the quality and engagement of TikTok videos for resistance exercises in lateral elbow tendinopathy [24], and gamified assessments are reviewed for pediatric upper extremity function [11].

Assessment Tools and Psychometrics¶

Focusing on measurement validity and reliability, this group examines the psychometric properties of various hand outcome measures. A systematic review analyzes the cross-cultural adaptations and validation of the Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire [8], while another study translates the Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation Questionnaire into Marathi [18]. Specific assessments are evaluated for reliability, including the Complete Minnesota Dexterity Test [19, 27], and the Hamilton Inventory is assessed for its utility in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome [12]. These articles ensure clinicians have robust, culturally appropriate, and reliable tools for clinical decision-making.

Special Populations and Systemic Conditions¶

This cluster highlights hand therapy applications for specific patient demographics and systemic diseases. Studies include the feasibility of a musculoskeletal health program for musicians [9], the effectiveness of therapy for breast cancer survivors with aromatase inhibitor-associated syndrome [6], and clinical insights into hand function in primary Sjögren's syndrome [15]. Pediatric cases are also represented, including a report on recurrent annular ligament displacement [13] and the establishment of normative data for dexterity tests in young populations [19]. These articles underscore the need for tailored interventions across the lifespan and for patients with comorbidities.

Articles by Theme¶

Therapeutic Modalities and Interventions (5)¶

1. Seow CK, Lim GH. Duration of superficial heat modality on wrist and finger range of motion: A quasi-experimental study. Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1177/17589983251384978

This quasi-experimental study evaluated the optimal duration of Fluidotherapy® and Hot Pack treatments for improving wrist and finger active range of motion in patients with distal radius or finger fractures. The research found that specific treatment durations significantly enhanced immediate joint flexibility and demonstrated measurable carry-over effects after mobilization. These findings suggest clinicians can tailor heat therapy protocols to maximize short-term functional gains in fracture rehabilitation.

7. Yüksel H, Aydeniz B, Kasap AC, et al. Comparison of the effectiveness of kinesiologic taping and high intensity laser therapy in lateral elbow tendinopathy: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.01.008

This randomized controlled trial compared the clinical effectiveness of kinesiologic taping versus high-intensity laser therapy for treating lateral elbow tendinopathy. The study determined which modality offers superior pain relief and functional improvement for patients with this common overuse injury. The results provide evidence-based guidance for selecting the most appropriate non-invasive treatment option in clinical practice.

10. Short N, Walls D, Rutland M. Dry needling: A tool to address tightness of the interossei?. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.002

This article investigates the efficacy of dry needling as a therapeutic tool for addressing tightness in the hand's interossei muscles. The authors present clinical evidence suggesting that dry needling effectively reduces muscle tension and improves range of motion in this specific population. Clinicians may consider dry needling a valuable adjunctive treatment for interossei tightness in hand therapy practice.

17. Khoramdel F, Ravanbod R, Akbari H. Effect of high-intensity laser therapy and mirror therapy on complex regional pain syndrome type I in the hand area: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.009

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the combined effects of high-intensity laser therapy and mirror therapy on patients with complex regional pain syndrome type I affecting the hand. The study found that this multimodal approach significantly reduced pain and improved functional outcomes compared to standard care. These findings suggest that integrating laser and mirror therapies could serve as an effective non-invasive treatment strategy for CRPS type I in clinical hand therapy settings.

26. Kalaycı MG, Analay Akbaba Y, Güven MF. The effect of motor imagery on functionality, pain, kinesiophobia, and quality of life in patients with distal radius fractures: A randomized controlled double-blind study. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.018

A randomized controlled double-blind study investigated the impact of motor imagery on functionality, pain, kinesiophobia, and quality of life in patients with distal radius fractures. The findings indicated that motor imagery significantly improved functional outcomes and reduced pain and fear of movement compared to standard care. These results suggest that integrating motor imagery into rehabilitation protocols can enhance recovery for distal radius fracture patients.

Rehabilitation Protocols and Outcomes (6)¶

2. Torres-Guzman RA, Bailey V, James AJ, et al. Hand function recovery after extended radial forearm free flap: A case series of a progressive therapy protocol. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.01.002

This case series details a progressive therapy protocol designed to optimize hand function recovery following extended radial forearm free flap reconstruction. The study documents the functional outcomes and rehabilitation trajectory of patients undergoing this specific surgical and therapeutic approach. The results provide a clinical framework for managing complex hand reconstruction cases to improve long-term dexterity and utility.

4. Harte D, Ramsey L, Wilson L, et al. Total active range of movement after treatment using a traction orthotic for extra-articular phalangeal fractures: A case series. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.01.005

This case series investigates the total active range of movement achieved in patients with extra-articular phalangeal fractures treated with a traction orthotic. The results demonstrate the orthotic's capacity to restore joint mobility and prevent stiffness during the healing process. Clinicians can consider this non-invasive intervention as an effective strategy for managing phalangeal fractures to preserve functional range.

14. Chong C, Mc Kittrick A, Shelton I, et al. Rehabilitation following distal triceps repair: A scoping review. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.006

This scoping review synthesizes current evidence regarding rehabilitation protocols following distal triceps repair surgery. The review identifies key phases of recovery and highlights gaps in standardized guidelines for post-operative care. Clinicians should utilize these findings to tailor rehabilitation programs that balance tissue healing with functional restoration.

16. Butler K, Sadnicka A, Edwards MJ, et al. Long-term (seven-year) follow-up of sensory-motor rehabilitation therapy for task-specific focal hand dystonia. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.008

This study reports on the long-term outcomes of sensory-motor rehabilitation therapy for task-specific focal hand dystonia over a seven-year period. The results demonstrate sustained improvements in motor function and symptom reduction in patients who completed the therapy. These findings support the long-term efficacy of sensory-motor retraining as a primary treatment for this neurological condition.

21. Tong Y, Donnelly M, Paksima N. Nonoperative treatment of the Boutonniere deformity: Is there a difference in outcomes?. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.013

This study compared clinical outcomes between different nonoperative treatment protocols for Boutonniere deformity to determine if one approach yields superior results. The findings indicated no statistically significant difference in functional recovery or deformity correction between the compared conservative methods. Consequently, clinicians may select nonoperative strategies based on patient preference and resource availability rather than efficacy concerns.

22. Ahmed E, Atteya MR, Alansari A, et al. A randomized controlled trial comparing controlled active motion and early passive mobilization protocols for rehabilitation of repaired flexor tendons in zone II. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.014

A randomized controlled trial compared controlled active motion versus early passive mobilization protocols for patients undergoing flexor tendon repair in zone II. The results demonstrated that controlled active motion led to comparable or superior functional outcomes with a lower risk of tendon rupture compared to passive mobilization. This evidence supports the adoption of controlled active motion as a preferred rehabilitation protocol for zone II flexor tendon repairs.

Technology, Telehealth, and Digital Tools (6)¶

3. Rozevink SG, Maas B, Murgia A, et al. Therapists’ and prosthesis users’ assessments of a virtual reality environment designed for upper limb prosthesis control training. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.01.004

This study assessed the perceptions of both therapists and prosthesis users regarding a virtual reality environment developed for upper limb prosthesis control training. The findings indicate the level of acceptance and perceived utility of this immersive technology in clinical rehabilitation settings. These insights support the integration of virtual reality tools to enhance training efficacy and patient engagement in prosthetic adaptation.

5. Kang J, Parent CA, Pipicelli J, et al. Hand therapists’ usage and perception of technology and telerehabilitation: An online survey study with a qualitative component. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.01.006

This mixed-methods survey study examined the current usage patterns and professional perceptions of technology and telerehabilitation among hand therapists. The data reveals the extent of digital tool adoption and identifies key barriers and facilitators influencing their implementation in practice. These findings highlight the growing role of telehealth in hand therapy and suggest areas for future training and resource allocation.

11. Cordray H, Fiandeiro M, Banala M, et al. Gamified assessments of pediatric upper extremity function: A systematic review and appraisal. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.003

This systematic review appraises the validity and reliability of gamified assessments used to evaluate upper extremity function in pediatric populations. The review identifies several promising games that offer engaging, objective measures of hand function while maintaining psychometric rigor. These tools hold clinical potential for improving assessment engagement and accuracy in pediatric rehabilitation settings.

23. Shirato R, Komatsu Y, Sanada K, et al. Comparison of cocontraction methods of forearm muscles for controlling myoelectric prosthetic hand: An experimental study using surface electromyography on healthy participants. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.015

This experimental study utilized surface electromyography to compare different forearm muscle cocontraction methods for controlling myoelectric prosthetic hands in healthy participants. The research identified specific cocontraction patterns that offered the most intuitive and precise control signals for prosthetic operation. These insights can guide the optimization of control algorithms and training protocols for myoelectric prosthetic users.

24. Heales LJ, Gunasinghe B, Melrose E, et al. A systematic review of the quality and engagement of TikTok videos of resistance exercises for the management of lateral elbow tendinopathy. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.016

A systematic review assessed the quality and engagement levels of TikTok videos providing resistance exercises for lateral elbow tendinopathy management. The analysis found that while many videos were popular, a significant portion lacked evidence-based content or contained potentially harmful advice. This highlights the need for healthcare professionals to create and promote high-quality, scientifically accurate digital content to counter misinformation.

25. Yang C, Cheng Y, Lin C, et al. Quantifying the reach-and-grasp practice using novel wearable technology: Application in a stroke rehabilitation setting. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.017

This study utilized novel wearable technology to quantify reach-and-grasp practice metrics in a stroke rehabilitation setting. The research demonstrated that these devices can effectively capture detailed movement data to assess rehabilitation progress. Clinically, this technology offers a precise tool for therapists to tailor and monitor stroke recovery interventions.

Assessment Tools and Psychometrics (5)¶

8. Marwaha RK, Shukla Y. Systematic review of the quality of the cross-cultural adaptations and validation of Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (MHQ) and meta-analysis. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.01.009

This systematic review and meta-analysis critically appraised the quality of cross-cultural adaptations and validation studies for the Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire. The analysis identified gaps in the psychometric robustness of the tool across different languages and cultural contexts. These findings underscore the need for rigorous validation processes to ensure the MHQ's reliability and validity in diverse international clinical settings.

12. Farzad M, Packham T, MacDermid J, et al. Psychometric evaluation of the Hamilton Inventory to evaluate signs and symptoms in patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.004

This study conducted a psychometric evaluation of the Hamilton Inventory to determine its suitability for assessing signs and symptoms in patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). The results indicate that the inventory possesses strong reliability and validity for this specific patient population. The Hamilton Inventory is therefore recommended as a standardized tool for clinical assessment and monitoring of CRPS.

18. Satpute K, Medhe K, Hall T. The Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation Questionnaire was successfully translated to Marathi. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.010

Researchers successfully translated and culturally adapted the Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation Questionnaire into the Marathi language to improve accessibility for Indian populations. The validation process confirmed the instrument's reliability and validity for assessing lateral elbow tendinopathy in Marathi-speaking patients. This translation enables clinicians to accurately measure patient-reported outcomes in regions where Marathi is the primary language.

19. Konieczny TL, Butler NP, Allen-Taylor L, et al. Pediatric normative data for the Complete Minnesota Dexterity Test. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.011

This study established pediatric normative data for the Complete Minnesota Dexterity Test across various age groups of children. The results provide a critical baseline for clinicians to distinguish between normal developmental dexterity and potential motor deficits in young patients. These norms facilitate more accurate diagnosis and targeted intervention planning for pediatric hand therapy cases.

27. Walter JR, Bandt K, Hahn K, et al. Interrater and intrarater reliability for the Complete Minnesota Dexterity Test. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.03.003

This research evaluated the interrater and intrarater reliability of the Complete Minnesota Dexterity Test. The study confirmed that the test demonstrates high reliability for both single and multiple raters. Consequently, the test is validated as a consistent and dependable instrument for assessing dexterity in clinical and research settings.

Special Populations and Systemic Conditions (4)¶

6. Weimer W, Sleven M. The effectiveness of hand therapy for breast cancer survivors experiencing aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal syndrome in the hands and wrists. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.01.007

This study evaluated the effectiveness of hand therapy interventions for breast cancer survivors suffering from aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal syndrome. The results indicate that targeted therapeutic strategies can significantly alleviate hand and wrist pain and improve functional capacity in this population. The findings support the inclusion of specialized hand therapy in the comprehensive care plan for breast cancer survivors on hormonal therapy.

9. Basseri B, Streeter S, Gutierrez Naranjo J, et al. Feasibility and impact of an expanded upper extremity musculoskeletal health for musicians (MHM) program on arm and hand pain in musicians. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.001

This study evaluated the feasibility and impact of an expanded upper extremity musculoskeletal health program for musicians on arm and hand pain. The program demonstrated significant reductions in pain and improvements in function among participating musicians. These findings suggest that specialized, expanded MHM programs are a viable intervention for managing musician-related musculoskeletal disorders.

13. Van Oort C. A case report of recurrent annular ligament displacement in a pediatric patient. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.005

This case report details the clinical presentation and management of a pediatric patient experiencing recurrent displacement of the annular ligament. The authors highlight the diagnostic challenges and successful surgical or conservative interventions required to resolve the recurrence. This case underscores the importance of considering ligamentous instability in pediatric elbow pain that does not respond to standard care.

15. Erol K, Akyildiz Tezcan E, Akgöl S. Exploring hand function in newly diagnosed primary Sjögren’s syndrome: Clinical, radiographic, and ultrasonographic insights. Journal of Hand Therapy 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jht.2025.02.007

This study explores hand function in newly diagnosed primary Sjögren's syndrome patients using clinical, radiographic, and ultrasonographic assessments. The findings reveal distinct patterns of hand involvement, including synovitis and tendon abnormalities, often preceding overt clinical symptoms. Early detection of these musculoskeletal manifestations is crucial for timely intervention in Sjögren's syndrome management.

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