Occupational Therapy for Neuropathy in the Hands

Peripheral neuropathy is a neurological condition that results from nerve damage. It causes numbness, pain, and dexterity and coordination problems. Neuropathy can result from nerve trauma, vitamin deficiencies, infections, inherited disorders, autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic conditions such as diabetes and liver disease. Neuropathy symptoms can be managed with a healthy diet, regular exercise and medication, as well as with occupational therapy.

Occupational Therapy for Neuropathy

• While physical therapy addresses the strengthening of muscles and keeping a wide range of motion, occupational therapy is used to help you cope with the impact neuropathy can have on various aspects of your life. Occupational therapy improves sensory and motor skills, teaches you self-care activities and safety awareness, and provides you with techniques for maintaining mobility, stability and range of motion with your hands and fingers.

  Use occupational therapy to come up with alternative ways to accomplish everyday tasks that may otherwise prove difficult. If you have trouble buttoning shirts, for example, occupational therapy may be useful in providing you with a new technique, or a special tool that can aid in grabbing buttons and passing them through loops.

  Occupational therapy for neuropathy emphasizes protecting yourself while performing everyday tasks. Because many neuropathy patients lose feeling in their hands and feet, it may be necessary to take several steps to ensure that everyday tasks are safe. Before bathing or showering, use a thermometer to test the temperature of the water. Always use pot holders when cooking or handling items on a stove or in an oven, and use thick gloves when washing dishes or working with sharp utensils. Wear low- or flat-heeled shoes that are of an appropriate size, and wear thick socks to protect against blisters. Inspect hands, feet and the skin of other neuropathy-affected areas daily for any abrasions, blisters, burns or wounds, and treat any injuries promptly.

  Speak to your physician about occupational therapy. It is available by prescription only, and your physician may be able to recommend a specific occupational therapist or therapeutic center that is better experienced and/or equipped to help you work past your neuropathy-induced limitations.