Distal Radius Fractures Hand Therapy in San Francisco
A distal radius fracture—the most common type of wrist fracture—requires specialized rehabilitation to restore full function and prevent long-term stiffness. Our certified hand therapists have over 25 years of experience helping patients recover from wrist fractures with personalized treatment plans designed to rebuild strength, mobility, and confidence in daily activities.
When Wrist Fractures Don't Heal Right, Daily Life Suffers
After a distal radius fracture, your wrist can feel weak, stiff, and painful for months without proper therapy. Don't let improper healing limit your independence and quality of life.
Persistent Wrist Stiffness
Your wrist feels locked and tight. Simple movements like turning a doorknob or using a computer mouse cause pain and frustration.
Loss of Grip Strength
You can't hold a coffee cup, open jars, or carry groceries without your wrist giving out. Everyday tasks have become overwhelming challenges.
Limited Range of Motion
You can't bend your wrist fully or rotate your forearm. Activities you once took for granted—writing, cooking, getting dressed—now feel impossible.
Certified Hand Therapists Specializing in Distal Radius Fracture Recovery
At Golden Gate Hand Therapy, we provide evidence-based rehabilitation specifically designed for distal radius fractures. Our board-certified hand therapists understand the complex anatomy of the wrist and create customized treatment plans to restore your range of motion, rebuild grip strength, and eliminate pain. Whether you've had surgery or non-surgical treatment, we'll help you achieve the best possible recovery.
✓ Specialized wrist fracture rehabilitation with Certified Hand Therapists (CHT)
✓ Custom splint fabrication to support healing and prevent re-injury
✓ Advanced manual therapy and progressive strengthening exercises
"I had a bad bicycle accident resulting a broken wrist that required a cast and extensive hand therapy. I was given a list of hand therapy facilities by my doctor. After calling several places on the list, only Golden Gate Hand Therapy called back promptly. I was given an appointment right away to see Melanie. During my first appointment and evaluation, I was very impressed by her expertise and caring demeanor. Melanie answered all my questions thoroughly and patiently. I was surprised to find out that she actually discussed with my hand orthopedic surgeon about my conditions prior to my appointment, so she could provide the best care during my recovery. Later I learned that Melanie is the founder and owner of GGHT who manages an excellent team of exceptional hand therapists. I highly recommend GGHT for anyone in need of superior hand therapy services."
Your Path to Complete Wrist Recovery
Book Your Free Consultation
Connect with our certified hand therapists to discuss your wrist fracture, current symptoms, and recovery goals. We'll answer your questions and create a personalized rehabilitation plan.
Complete Your Comprehensive Assessment
Our CHT specialists evaluate your wrist range of motion, grip strength, swelling, and functional limitations. We review your X-rays and coordinate with your physician to ensure optimal healing.
Begin Your Customized Treatment Program
Start your specialized therapy with manual mobilization, therapeutic exercises, custom splinting, and functional activities designed to restore full wrist function.
Wrist Fracture Conditions We Treat in San Francisco
Our certified hand therapists specialize in treating all types of distal radius fractures and related wrist injuries. Whether you've had surgical fixation with plates and screws, pins, or non-surgical cast treatment, we provide expert rehabilitation to help you regain strength and mobility.
• Colles' Fractures: Most common distal radius fracture with dorsal displacement • Smith's Fractures: Volar-displaced fractures requiring specialized positioning • Barton's Fractures: Intra-articular fractures involving the wrist joint • Chauffeur's Fractures: Radial styloid fractures from falls or impacts • ORIF Recovery: Post-surgical rehabilitation after open reduction internal fixation • Non-Surgical Fractures: Cast removal rehab to restore function after immobilization
See What Our Patients Say
Meet Our Expert Team
Completed her Master's OT degree at Samuel Merritt University. Founded GGHT in 2005 with a passion for helping hands heal in San Francisco. She loves spending quality time with her family, traveling and staying active with pure barre and pickle ball.
With over 24 years of hand therapy experience, Danielle is an expert. Completed her BS OT at Loma Linda University. She is primarily in our Mill Valley office. She enjoys spending time with her family, yoga and traveling.
Crystal completed her Master's degree in Occupational Therapy and Midwestern University and is primarily based in our San Francisco office. She recently earned her Certified Hand Therapy (CHT) credential. Outside of work, she enjoys baking, Pilates, and skiing.
Graduated with a Master's of OT from Dominican University. Eizelle is primarily in our San Francisco office. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her daughter and son discovering new places.
Woof woof! Part-time office therapy dog. Puts a smile on your face. Treats and pets are always appreciated!
Start Your Wrist Fracture Recovery Today
Our certified hand therapists are ready to help you regain full wrist function and return to the activities you love. Contact us today to schedule your free phone consultation.
Email:mjohnke@gghandtherapy.com
Phone: 415.359.1444
Office: 2238 Union Street San Francisco, CA 94123
Driving Directions: We're just 5 minutes from the Marina, near the corner of Union and Fillmore. Close to restaurants, boutiques, and the Lombard Street area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of your fracture and whether you had surgery. Most patients regain basic function within 6-8 weeks, but full recovery—including strength and range of motion—typically takes 3-6 months with proper hand therapy. Our certified therapists create progressive treatment plans that accelerate healing while protecting the fracture site during each phase of recovery.
The timing depends on your treatment type. For non-surgical fractures, therapy often begins shortly after cast removal to address stiffness and restore motion. For surgical fractures with pins, plates, or screws, therapy may start earlier with gentle exercises while you're still in a splint. We coordinate directly with your orthopedic surgeon to ensure you start therapy at the optimal time for your specific fracture.
Your personalized treatment plan may include manual therapy to restore wrist mobility, therapeutic exercises to rebuild strength, custom splinting to support healing, edema management to reduce swelling, scar tissue mobilization (if you had surgery), and functional activities to return to daily tasks. Our certified hand therapists progress your treatment based on your healing timeline and individual goals.
Still have questions?
Contact our team for answers to any questions about your wrist fracture or rehabilitation needs.