Certified Hand Therapy

Certified Hand Therapists are specially trained to evaluate and administer treatment of the hand and upper quadrant (shoulder to finger) in order for our patients to regain the ability to perform work, life, and daily activities.

Hand Therapists utilize intricate knowledge of the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder to prevent dysfunction, reverse the progression of disease, and promote healing of injured structures to restore function.

The goal of a Certified Hand Therapist is to plan and execute treatment that will return the patients treated to the highest possible level of independence in daily activities.

What We Treat

Common problems seen for treatment:

  • Fractures

  • Sprains/strains

  • Osteoarthritis/Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Dislocations/ligament repair

  • Tendon injuries and repairs

  • Carpal/cubital tunnel syndrome

  • Trigger finger/thumb

  • Dupuytren’s disease post procedure

  • DeQuervain’s tenosynovitis

  • Lateral/Medial epicondylitis (Tennis/golfers elbow)

  • Nerve injuries/neurological conditions

How We Treat

Techniques we use:

  • Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization

  • Joint protection techniques

  • Coordination and endurance training

  • Functional exercise

  • Job/task simulation

  • Joint mobilization

  • Muscle re-education

  • Ergonomics

  • Sensory education/protection

  • Bracing and custom splinting

  • Taping

  • Physical agent modalities

  • Adaptive equipment

Also

Upper Extremity Neurological Rehabilitation

After a stroke, it is estimated that about 20% of subjects do not recover the use of the upper limb and that most have partial recovery. Loss of functionality in the use of the upper limb is one of the main factors affecting disability, and therefore a persons quality of life. Many people who survive stroke perceive this loss of functionality as one of their major problems preventing them from returning to independence. Therapy to address these specific restrictions can lead to a significant improvement in daily life.

Office Ergonomics

The science of arranging the things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely.

Poor ergonomic design can lead to many problems including repetitive strain injuries. Ergonomics is concerned with the "fit" between the user, equipment, and environment or "fitting a job to a person" or fitting the environment to the individual. It accounts for the user's capabilities and limitations in seeking to ensure that tasks, functions, and the environment suit that user. Our bodies were not designed to sit still for hours or stare at screens. And as our bodies get older they are less forgiving. It may be that after discussion we find that a few minor adjustments to your work environment could help facilitate your healing and be built into your plan.