Therapy following flexor tendon surgery.

The emergence of therapists specifically trained in the techniques of hand rehabilitation has added immeasurably to the ability to return function following upper extremity injury or disease. Specifically, in the difficult area of flexor tendon injury, this specialized therapy has markedly elevated the anticipated level of functional recovery following repair, graft, lysis, or reconstruction. Specific protocols have been suggested for the early mobilization of flexor tendons following severance and repair. Methods of tendon and digital mobilization following grafting or reconstruction and the problems associated with flexor tenolysis have been discussed in conjunction with exercise techniques, the use of static and dynamic splints, and the importance of adjunctive modalities designed to improve the results of these procedures. The need for close cooperation and understanding between patient, surgeon, and therapist is emphasized in this article. The need to approach each patient as a separate entity with unique requirements, limitations, and goals is extremely important in the effort to return maximum function following each surgical procedure.