Hand Therapy
What is hand therapy for?
Hand therapy is an important part of the healing and recovery process
after an injury or cumulative trauma. It is an assessment of skeletal,
muscular, nervous, vascular, skin and connective tissue injury,
functional and/or ergonomic status and psychosocial factors. The
implementation of a clinical and home exercise program for increased movement
and strength under the supervision of a certified therapist is completed. Fabrication
of splints for injuries, disorders, or to prevent further pain and/or damage is usually
required for most patients. Hand therapy helps the patient to return to activities of daily
living and incorporates work education for proper body mechanics to prevent re-injury or
further injury for promoting a functional lifestyle.
Who are hand therapists?Hand therapists are certified, registered or licensed occupational therapists who through advanced continuing education, clinical experience and independent study have become proficient in the treatment of pathological upper-extremity conditions resulting from trauma, disease, or congenital or acquired deformity.