About
Hand therapy is the art and science of evaluating and treating injuries and conditions of the upper extremity (shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, and hand). It uses a number of therapeutic interventions to help return a person to their highest level of function
What Can a Hand Therapist Do For Me?
Hand therapy bridges the gap from medical management of upper extremity conditions to successful recovery, allowing individuals to function normally in their daily lives. Hand therapy provides non-operative interventions, preventative care and post-surgical rehabilitation for a wide variety of upper extremity disorders, from simple fingertip injuries to complex replanted extremities. Patients with chronic conditions, such as arthritis, or neurologic conditions, such as a stroke, can benefit from therapy through education on joint protection and energy conservation, and with recommendations for adaptive equipment or devices to improve function. Hand therapy employs a variety of techniques and tools, including activity and exercise programs, management of pain and swelling and wound scar care. A hand therapist can also be a consultant in the industrial world, training employees in healthy work habits.