Foundation Sports and Rehabilitation Clinic

Our Hand Therapy Team

Emma Rathbone

Registered Hand Therapist/Physiotherapist

Caroline Hartstone

Registered Hand Therapist/Physiotherapist

Why choose a certified Hand Therapist

Improving hand and wrist health requires specialised training and a careful approach. At Foundation Clinic, our certified hand therapists possess a focused, deep understanding of upper extremity function. Our knowledge and skills make us uniquely qualified to support recovery, restore movement, and reduce pain in the case of injury, surgery, or illness.

Choosing a registered hand therapist ensures that you receive care from a specialist with dedicated expertise in this complex and vital area of the body.

Specialised care for your hands, wrists & arms

We provide individualised, expert management of hand and upper limb injuries, proprioceptive retraining, taping, and functional rehabilitation. If you've injured your hand, wrist, forearm, or elbow, we can assist with your rehabilitation from acute injury right through to returning to sport.

We can help with:

Arthritis in the hand and wrist
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Finger sprains and fractures
Mallet finger
Nerve conditions of the upper limb
Post-casting rehabilitation
Post-surgical splinting and rehabilitation
Splinting for fractures to the hand and wrist
Tendon conditions such as tennis elbow and de Quervain’s syndrome
Trigger finger
Wrist sprains

For more information, contact [email protected]

Hand Therapy Prices:

ACC Initial Range from $45 - $50
ACC Follow-up Range from $33 - $40
Private Initial Range from $123 - $150
Private Follow-up Range from $78 - $110

Why choose Foundation Clinic for Hand Therapy?

Experience and expertise

With decades of combined experience in the hand physio space, a passion for helping our patients on the rehabilitation journey, and unmatched knowledge, we are your trusted provider of hand treatment services.

Comprehensive treatment plans

We take an all-encompassing approach to treatment and develop personalised plans tailored to your unique needs to help you get back to your best.

Convenient location and booking

Our friendly team is conveniently located across four clinics in Tauranga, Hamilton, and Taupo. To book an appointment with a registered hand specialist, simply fill out our online form or give us a call.

How does the Hand Therapy process at Foundation Clinic work?

Initial assessment and diagnosis

A hand physiotherapist will assess your hand, forearm, fingers, or other areas where treatment is required and provide a formal diagnosis.

Therapeutic techniques used

Our hand therapy services include splinting or casting, mobilisation, strengthening exercises, wound management, and massage.

Progress monitoring

We develop a robust plan to treat your hand injury and then closely monitor your progress, making adjustments as needed.

What is hand therapy, and how does it help with recovery?

Hand therapy is a specialised form of rehabilitation provided by trained, registered hand therapists who focus on the hand and upper limb. It combines expert assessment, manual techniques, customised exercises, and education to help restore movement, reduce pain, and improve function.

Whether you need post-surgical rehabilitation, help managing a chronic condition, or are healing from a hand injury, our therapy services support a faster, safer return to daily activities, work, and sports.

How do I know if I need hand therapy?

See a hand therapist if you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility in your hands or upper limb—especially if it’s affecting your daily activities. This discomfort may be due to an injury, recent surgery, or an underlying condition, and it’s important to consult a registered physiotherapist for proper assessment and care.

Is hand therapy painful?

Hand therapy is not typically painful. While the goal is to reduce pain and improve function, some discomfort during or after treatment is normal, especially in cases involving nerve injuries or scar management. Our hand therapists carefully monitor your response and always work within your pain tolerance, adjusting techniques as needed to keep your recovery safe and manageable.

How long does it take to see improvement with hand therapy?

The time it takes to see improvement with hand therapy depends on the type and severity of your condition, as well as how consistently you follow your tailored treatment plan. Some patients notice progress within a few sessions, especially for mild injuries or post-operative care, while more complex issues like tendonitis, fractures, or dislocations may require weeks or even months of ongoing therapy.

Will I need to continue therapy at home after my sessions?

Yes, continuing therapy at home is a crucial part of recovering from your hand injury. Your registered hand therapist will give you exercises to perform at home following your treatment sessions.

Can hand therapy help after hand surgery or fractures?

Yes! At Foundation Clinic, our team of registered hand therapists specialises in helping you recover following surgery and injury, including fractures. We utilise a range of proven and science-based services to help alleviate pain, enhance function, and help you return to your best.

What should I expect during my first hand therapy session?

Your first session with a registered hand therapist at Foundation Clinic will centre around understanding your symptoms, condition, or injury and discussing your recovery goals. You may bring medical documents, such as scans, to your appointment so that your physiotherapist has all the relevant information to provide a diagnosis and treatment plan.