A hand exercise device comprising a base with a generally planar surface, and at least one string held at a substantial angle of inclination with respect to the planar surface of the base. The hand exercise device can be adapted to perform hand exercises that involve applying a pushing force to move the string such that the string is in contact with the planar surface of the base. The hand exercise device can be modified to include a plurality of strings of different thicknesses held at a substantial angle of inclination to facilitate variable exercise resistance. The hand exercise device can benefit patients by increasing grip strength, improving hand function, and/or alleviating joint pain.