Neurological Hand Exercise

Neurological diseases that affect the hands can be devastating. Simple activities of daily living like brushing your teeth, signing your name or changing the channels with a remote control can seem like unachievable feats. Hand therapy through exercise can help improve function.

About

There can be several causes of impaired hand mobility. The brain can be affected by stroke, dystonia or Parkinson's disease. A stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks blood flow to the brain. Reduced blood flow can lead to brain cell death and can cause paralysis on one or both sides of your body. Dystonia is a condition in which muscles contract involuntarily, according to the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation. Parkinson's disease is characterized by tremors, slow movements and rigidity of the muscles.

Norms

Hand function and strength can be determined based upon results of a hand grip dynamometer test. According to Tufts University, this procedure measures the amount of voluntary force a person is able to produce with each finger. Norms are based upon age, gender and dominant vs. nondominant hands.

Exercises

Several studies indicate exercise as an effective way to rehabilitate motor control and strength in neurological disorders that affect the hand. A study conducted at Istanbul University determined that regular, professionally designed exercise programs improved motor performance in Parkinson's patients. Another study conducted by the Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society found a virtual reality exercise system improved hand function post-stroke. In a study published in the "Journal of Neurological Sciences" in 1995, two sessions of 15-minute strength therapy each day increased hand motor rehabilitation.

Time Frame

The time frame for improvement and recovery varies by disease and condition. The Istanbul University, Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society and "Journal of Neurological Sciences" studies saw improvements for their participants within weeks. However, the book "Stroke: A Practical Approach" suggests that relearning motor control takes restructuring of the brain and neural pathways, which may take months to develop.

Considerations

When developing an exercise program for a hand problem caused by a neurological disorder, you should seek the guidance of a professional. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, physical therapists can help with hand disorders by working with you to improve your quality of life through exercise.