Hand Therapy
Our Hand Therapists at Physical Therapy Plus have a high degree of specialization in the treatment of upper extremity conditions and injuries. Examples of diagnoses commonly treated include Repetitive Motion Disorders such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Tendonitis, Epicondylitis. We also treat fractures, lacerations, wrist sprains, finger dislocations, crush injuries, tendon and nerve lacerations and amputations.
A qualified hand therapist can evaluate and identify most problems relative to the upper extremities. Thorough and accurate assessments that lead to effective treatment result in faster recovery for the patient and decreased medical costs. Our Hand Therapists focus on functional outcomes taking into consideration work issues as well as ADL skills.
Rehabilitation services include:
- Management of acute or chronic pain through the use of thermal and/or electrical modalities, tissue massage and patient education.
- Patient education in the use of modalities, proper stretching and exercise to manage symptoms. This includes job specific training of symptom management
- Customized exercise programs to increase joint motion, strength, dexterity and endurance
- Custom splint fabrication for protection of injured areas, or to provide correct positioning during the healing process.
- Posture correction training, and training in ergonomic consideration of work tasks
- Job specific strengthening and conditioning prior to returning to work. The hand therapist may recommend modification to the work station.
- Training in the performance of daily living skills through adapted methods or with the use of adaptive equipment.
Specialized Post-Operative Hand Therapy Services:
- Knowledge of protocols for specific operative procedures, including fracture reduction, tendon or nerve repair, and carpal tunnel release.
- Management of open or sutured wounds
- Edema reduction and management
- Management of hypertrophic or hypersensitive scars
- Initiation of ROM and strengthening programs at appropriate times in the healing process
