Hand therapy dough recipe and exercises

Theraputty is a strong, latex-free, putty-like material used for rehabilitating and strengthening your hands.

By stretching, pinching, kneading, and squeezing the putty in your hand, you exercise the muscles. Regular exercise helps to reduce stiffness and keep your joints and muscles working well. 

Homemade therapy dough can be a great substitute for Theraputty that’s just as effective for strengthening your hands. 

Follow the recipe below to make your own therapy dough. (This is a great activity to do with kids!)

Therapy dough recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain flour
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup cooking salt
• 1 tablespoon cream of tartar
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• Food colouring (optional)

Method

1. Mix flour, cream of tartar, salt, and oil in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add food colouring to boiling water (if using).
3. Gradually add water to dry ingredients and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Allow mixture to cool.
5. Knead the dough until the stickiness has gone.

You can also add sand or rice to change the texture of the dough.

Important safety information

Do not consume therapy dough.

Therapy dough can last up to 6 months if stored in an airtight container.

Use wheat-free ingredients if you have a wheat allergy.

Hand exercises to do with your therapy dough

Try holding each exercise position for a few seconds and repeat five to ten times depending on your ability.

Hand exercise 1

Squeeze the dough with all your fingers and your thumb.

Hand exercise 2

Keep your knuckles straight and bend the tips of your fingers to squeeze the dough.

Hand exercise 3

Pinch the dough with your thumb and each finger in turn. 

Hand exercise 4

Bending your hand only at the large knuckles, press the dough down against your thumb.

Hand exercise 5

Press the dough against your index finger with your thumb. Keep your other fingers straight.

Hand exercise 6

Squeeze the dough between your thumb and the side of your index finger.

Get in touch with LiveUp

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References

Arthritis Australia. (2024, May). Wrists & hands. https://arthritisaustralia.com.au/what-is-arthritis/areas-of-the-body/wrists-hands/