Restore Hand Therapy NZ

28/08/2025

A huge thank you to the team at Boulcott Hospital for the incredible opportunity to observe surgery this week.

As a hand therapist, being able to witness surgical procedures firsthand is such a valuable experience. It deepens our understanding of the human body, enhances our knowledge of surgical techniques, and allows us to better support patients throughout their rehabilitation journey.

I’m so grateful for the generosity, teaching, and time shared – it’s experiences like these that truly enrich our practice.

21/08/2025

🌟 Did you know the thumb is the most common spot for hand osteoarthritis? 🌟
Thumb OA can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty with everyday tasks like opening jars or turning keys.

✅ Simple treatments can make a big difference:

--> Splints to support your thumb
--> Heat to ease stiffness
--> Gentle strengthening exercises to improve function

👉 If thumb pain or swelling keeps bothering you, don’t ignore it—help is available! 💪🖐️

04/08/2025

🖐️ Helpful Tips When Wearing a Splint/Cast 🖐

Recovering from a hand or wrist injury? Whether you're in a splint or a cast, here are some simple everyday tips to make life a little easier:

👕 When Dressing: Always put your injured hand into the sleeve first. It’s easier to guide your arm through without bending or twisting awkwardly.

👚 Choose Easy Clothing: Look for tops with wide sleeves, zip-ups, or button fronts. Stretchy fabrics are much easier to get on and off with one hand.

🚿 Protect Your Splint or Cast: Keep it dry at all times—especially during showers. Use a proper waterproof cover or a plastic bag sealed with a rubber band or tape above the cast.

🧼 Keep It Clean: Avoid getting dust, crumbs, or lotions inside your splint or cast. If your fingers are exposed, keep them clean and dry.

🖐️ Keep Fingers Moving (if advised): Gently moving your fingers helps reduce stiffness and swelling—but only do what your therapist recommends.

📞 Report Problems Early: If you notice numbness, increased pain, swelling, or rubbing, contact your therapist. Don’t ignore it!

Healing takes time—but small adjustments can make a big difference 💪

04/07/2025

04/07/2025

Wrist Fact of the Day! ☀️
Your wrist is made up of 8 tiny bones called carpal bones—and they’re arranged in two neat rows. These little bones give your wrist the flexibility to move in almost every direction, helping you do everything from texting to high-fiving to mastering that perfect wrist flick!
Next time you check the time ⌚️ , give your wrist a nod of appreciation! 🤩

30/05/2025

Did you know!!
Trigger finger is a common hand condition where a finger or thumb becomes locked in a bent position and may "click" when straightened. It is caused by inflammation and narrowing of the sheath surrounding the flexor tendon.

Common Presenting Symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness over the base of the affected finger/thumb
- Clicking, catching, or locking during finger movement
- Morning stiffness or inability to fully extend the digit
- Palpable nodule at the base of the finger

Role of Hand Therapy:
- Custom splinting to rest the tendon
- Activity modification and ergonomic advice
- Soft tissue techniques and stretching
- Referral for corticosteroid injection or surgical consult if conservative management fails

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20/05/2025

MEET THE TEAM
Natalie Blackburn - Hand Therapist

Natalie holds a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. She spent eight years at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, where she gained extensive experience in neurological, spinal, orthopedic, and hand rehabilitation. In 2018, she transitioned into hand therapy.

In 2022, Natalie immigrated to New Zealand, continuing her work in hand therapy.

Outside of work, she is a dedicated mom to a busy one-year-old and enjoys spending quality time with family and friends.

We are super excited to have you in our team 🙂

09/05/2025

Proud sponsors of Silverstream school netball. Beautiful sunny day for the first game of the season. GO TEAM PUKEKO!!

24/04/2025

Meet the team

Jess Mouton - Receptionist

Jessica is an aspiring professional with a strong foundation in law, having completed three years of a Bachelor of Law in South Africa. She recently immigrated to New Zealand and is expanding her skills in accounting and finance.

With a passion for reading, organising, and delivering quality work, Jessica is deeply committed to helping others and making a positive impact.

Her strong sense of service drives her desire to contribute meaningfully to any community or organisation she is part of.

We are super excited to have you in our team 🙂

20/04/2025

Vietnam loves hands as much as we do! Such beauty.

11/03/2025

💪 Improve Your Hand Strength at Home! 🏡

Did you know that a structured Home Exercise Program (HEP) can make a huge difference in your hand therapy progress? Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing arthritis, or improving mobility, consistency is key!

✨ Why Follow a Home Exercise Program?
✅ Speeds up recovery
✅ Reduces pain and stiffness
✅ Improves strength and flexibility
✅ Enhances overall hand function

At Restore Hand Therapy, we provide personalised home exercise plans tailored to your needs, ensuring you get the best results between therapy sessions.

📞 Contact us today to learn more or book an appointment! Your hands will thank you. 🙌

04/03/2025

MEET THE TEAM
Lauren Stevenson
One of the founding Directors of Restore Hand Therapy!

Lauren graduated with a Bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy from Stellenbosch University, South Africa, in 2004. She started her career in community rehabilitation, focusing on neurological and spinal conditions, both in South Africa and the UK. Her passion for hand therapy led her to complete a Postgraduate Diploma in Hand Therapy in 2011.

Since moving to New Zealand in 2012, Lauren has spent the past 13 years working in private practice hand therapy, specialising in complex conditions and trauma rehabilitation.

Outside of work, she’s a proud mum to beautiful twin girls and loves exploring the great outdoors with family and friends. 💙🏞️