Hand Therapy Program
Occupational therapists and physical therapist work closely with orthopedic surgeons and plastic surgeons that specialize in treating hand injuries and diseases. Hand therapists focus on restoring postoperative hand function after the following types of injuries:
- Flexor and extensor tendon injuries
- Hand, wrist and forearm fractures and dislocations
- Hand, wrist and thumb ligament sprains
- Repetitive motion injuries like tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome
- Arthritis
- Nerve injuries
- Burns and soft tissue injuries
The initial visit includes a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s current hand function and performance in light of acute and/or repetitive injuries. Individualized treatment regimens address specific impairments and are designed to assist in rapid rehabilitation to return to work and to participate in skilled sports, recreational or functional activities. Components of the hand therapy program may include:
- Fabrication of a custom splint
- Skin care and wound management
- Exercises to restore range-of-motion and strength.
- Joint and soft tissue mobilization
- Modalities to increase tissue extensibility, or reduce pain and edema
- Training in functional activities using the hand
- Education in ergonomic changes and joint protection techniques
- Instruction in a home exercise program
