Investigating the Appearance-related Concerns of People with Hand Injuries

Abstract

Investigating the Appearance-related Concerns of People with Hand Injuries An investigation of the appearance-related concerns of patients with disfiguring hand conditions was carried out in two out-patient clinics. A considerable proportion of the 122 respondents were experiencing psychosocial problems including anxiety, depression, social anxiety and social avoidance in addition to physical and functional difficulties. These difficulties were not related to the aetiology or severity of the hand condition. Hand therapists and other team members felt frustrated that they could not address patients’ needs more effectively. Solutions to these issues, including staff training, routine screening and the provision of support materials, are discussed.