What are hand therapy aids used for?
Hand therapy balls and putty provide resistance for gripping, squeezing, pinching and finger exercises. They are commonly used when the aim is to build hand strength, movement or dexterity.
What are resistance bands used for?
Resistance bands provide graded resistance for strengthening and mobility exercises. Different resistance levels allow exercises to be progressed gradually.
What are massage balls and rollers used for?
Massage balls and foot rollers provide local pressure to soft tissues and can be used for self-massage, mobility work or general muscle and fascia comfort.
What are hot and cold therapy products used for?
Reusable gel pads and positioning straps can be used to apply heat or cold to a targeted area. Heat and cold have different purposes, so the choice should match the problem being managed.
How do you choose the right type?
- the body area being treated;
- whether the main goal is strength, movement, comfort or symptom control;
- the amount of resistance or pressure that is appropriate;
- whether the exercise is part of a clinician-led rehabilitation programme;
- whether pain, swelling, weakness or loss of function needs assessment first.
Important: A therapy aid should support a sensible rehabilitation plan, not be used to push through significant or worsening pain.
