Hand Therapy

Injuries to the hand and upper extremities can be complex, involving bone, tendon, nerve and/or skin. Recovery is equally dependent upon expert physician care and early, appropriate therapy.

The goal of treatment is to help patients regain full hand and upper extremity function for daily activities.

Experienced Staff

Hand therapists are occupational and physical therapists who are highly experienced in treating problems of the upper extremity. Because of their high degree of specialization, continuing education and most often advanced certification, hand therapists are able to focus their expertise on patients requiring intensive hand therapy.

A hand therapist works with the patient to provide a continuum of care often starting within days of the injury or surgery right through to the patient’s return to work and/or a productive lifestyle.

Individualized Treatment

Our occupational therapists treat patients with:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Arthritis
• Tennis elbow
• Burns
• Amputation
• Tendonitis and trigger finger
• Tendon and nerve injuries
• Impingement syndrome
• Cumulative trauma
• Surgical and non-surgical fractures
• Soft tissue injuries
• Wrist and elbow injuries
• Reflex sympathetic dystrophy

Comprehensive Care Provided

Our qualified hand therapists can identify unique problems of the upper extremities and can effectively treat and rehabilitate patients through such methods as:

Postoperative rehabilitation

• Management of open or sutured wounds to aid healing
• Control of hypertrophic (raised and/or swollen) or hypersensitive scars
• Reduction of swelling

Rehabilitation

• Management of acute or chronic pain
• Desensitization following nerve injury or trauma
• Sensory re-education after nerve injury
• Design and implementation of exercise programs to increase motion dexterity and/or strength
• Training in the performance of daily life skills through adapted methods
• Conditioning prior to returning to work

Splinting

• Allows hand to heal in proper position
• Prevents further injury until hand regains strength
• To prevent or correct deformity

Industry consultation

Hand therapists also can work as consultants with employers to establish programs for workers at risk of developing cumulative trauma disorders. Our therapists can recommend modifications of work stations and alternative work methods to help ensure healthy work styles.

To Learn More

For more information, please call (574) 523-3242.