Hand Physio
Belfast

Hand Therapy is a recognised clinical specialism for the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder that goes beyond general physiotherapy. Treatment includes everything a MSK physiotherapist might provide for the upper limb, plus custom splint fabrication, advanced scar and wound management, nerve assessment and specialist post-surgical rehabilitation protocols. A Hand Therapist or Hand Therapy clinic will in most cases have additional diagnostic equipment. Initial Hand Therapy appointments are generally longer lasting 60 minutes rather than the 30 to 45 minutes typical of a general MSK physiotherapy session. This allows for a more thorough examination of the affected area and a detailed treatment plan from day one. Read our full guide on Hand Therapy vs Physiotherapy.

You will be seen by a dedicated hand and upper limb specialist rather than a general MSK physiotherapist. Ms Razo is a Certified Hand Therapist who works exclusively with the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder every day, from everyday conditions to complex trauma. Ms Razo has extensive specialist clinical experience in the upper limb, which means a thorough assessment, access to techniques and equipment that general clinics may not have and treatment protocols developed specifically for complex upper limb conditions. Many patients here have previously seen one or more physiotherapists, osteopaths or chiropractors before finding Ms Razo.

Yes. Hand Therapy with Ms Razo covers the entire upper limb from fingertip to shoulder. Conditions treated include frozen shoulder, rotator cuff injuries, tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, cubital tunnel syndrome and post-surgical shoulder and elbow rehabilitation. The term "Hand Therapy" is the recognised name for the specialism, but the scope can extend well beyond the hand itself.

An initial appointment is 60 minutes, significantly longer than a typical MSK physiotherapy session. This allows Ms Razo to carry out a thorough examination of the affected area, including range of movement, grip and pinch strength, sensation testing and functional assessment. You will leave with a working diagnosis, a clear treatment plan and usually some initial exercises or advice you can start straight away. If imaging is needed, private X-ray, MRI or ultrasound can be arranged within 24 to 48 hours.

In most cases, yes. This is due to longer appointment times, a higher level of specialism, extras such as custom splints and the clinical setting. At The Hand Therapist, we have taken steps to keep the cost of Hand Therapy with Ms Razo accessible to as many people as possible. An initial consultation and treatment session is £86 with a 60 minute duration. Follow-up appointments are £66 and last 45 minutes. There are no hidden costs. Any extras or peripherals are not included in the appointment fee but you will be informed of costs during your appointment.

Yes in most cases, but there are varying degrees of coverage. Some insurers cover Hand Therapy specifically with their own treatment codes. Many provide cover under the general MSK physiotherapy umbrella. Hand Therapy is practised by both Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists, so coverage can vary by insurer and policy. Ms Razo is currently a registered provider with BUPA and H3. For other policies, check with your insurer whether Hand Therapy with an Occupational Therapist is covered under your policy schedule.

No. You can self-refer directly without a GP letter or referral form. Many patients book an appointment themselves after finding that general treatment has not resolved their condition. If you do have a referral letter, imaging results or surgical notes, bring them along to your first appointment.