Retrograde massage for a swollen hand, finger, thumb or wrist

About retrograde massage

Retrograde massage can be used to reduce swelling in the hand or fingers that has occurred as a result of your injury, surgery or as a result of a condition such as arthritis.

Why is it useful?

Swelling is the body’s normal reaction to an injury or surgery. It is important to manage it as it can limit movement and cause stiffness and pain. This massage should improve the circulation in your hand and help to reduce the swelling.

When should it not be used?

Retrograde massage should not be completed if you have a heart condition or circulation problems.

Method

You will need moisturising cream or oil (for example, E45 or aqueous cream).

1. Sit comfortably with your elbow resting on the arm of a chair or table with your hand in the air.
2. Apply the oil or cream to the hand or finger and stroke from the tip of the finger down into the hand. Always work in a downwards motion, starting from the top and working down the swollen area.
3. The strokes should be long, smooth and firm so that the excess fluid is pushed out of the finger or hand, as far away from the swollen area as possible

Repeat as instructed by your therapist, ideally before your exercises.

If this treatment makes any of your symptoms worse, stop immediately and inform your therapist on 01223 216769.

Additional notes and instructions

Name of therapist:

Repetition instructions:

Start date:

Other notes:

MyChart

If you have not already done so, we would encourage you to sign up for MyChart (opens in a new tab). This is the electronic patient portal at Cambridge University Hospitals which allows patients to securely access parts of their health record held within the hospitals’ electronic patient record system (Epic). It is available via your home computer or smartphone.

If you are interested in this, please visit our website for more information or get in touch.

References

• Miller et al (2017) effectiveness of edema management techniques for subacute hand edema: A systematic review, Journal of Hand Therapy, 30(4), pp432-446.
• Boiselle Howard (2001) The Use of Manual edema mobilization of persistent edema in the upper limb, 14(4), 291-301.
• Burkhardt (1992) Occupational therapy techniques used in the treatment of edemas. Occupational Therapy Practice 4, 1(1), 8-21.
• Skirven et al (2011). Rehabilitation of the hand and Upper Extremity. 6th ed. Mosby.
• Cooper (2007). Fundamentals of Hand Therapy. Clinical reasoning and treatment guidelines for common diagnoses of the upper extremity. Mosby.