Hand therapy for the musician: instrument-focused rehabilitation.

Extraordinary hand therapy goals and treatment approaches are required for the professional musician. Rehabilitation using the instrument includes early return to modified playing, instrument-specific exercises, sensory reeducation and manual therapy, improving musical fitness, a multidisciplinary team approach, and instrument modifications and splinting when necessary. Education regarding good practice habits is essential to avoid secondary problems on return to full playing. This treatment approach is valuable following traumatic injury, for degenerative conditions, and for nonspecific wrist and hand pain.