Hand therapy is a specialized area of occupational therapy. It focuses on treating orthopedic upper-extremity issues to optimize the functional use of the arm and hand. Typical conditions that affect the hand are lacerations, amputations, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, fractures, and rheumatoid arthritis. In general, hand therapy focuses on the biomechanical issues of upper-extremity conditions. It’s a patient-centered approach that addresses the needs of the patient, like being able to lift things, open a jar, or button a shirt.
Hand therapy interventions by an occupational therapist may include therapeutic exercises, mirror therapy, orthosis design, pain management, manual therapy, taping, ergonomics, and compression therapy. Activities for a hand injury may include working with putty, using a gripper, and using dumbbells.
Some of the benefits of hand therapy include:
- Preventative, non-operative or conservative treatment
- Managing acute or chronic pain
- Desensitization following nerve injury or trauma
- Sensory re-education after nerve injuries
- Designing and implementing home exercise programs to increase motion, dexterity, and/or strength
- Customized splint fabrication to prevent or correct an injury
- Training for daily life skills through adapted methods and equipment
- Conditioning prior to returning to work
Overall, occupational therapy goes beyond addressing injuries. It includes the whole person’s functional needs and implements activities to promote psychological well-being. According to the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), in addition to dealing with an individual’s physical well-being, Occupational Therapy practitioners address psychological, social, and environmental factors that may hinder an individual’s functioning in different ways. For example, occupational therapy for a patient may include using a special tool to make cupcakes at home, and an occupational therapist will fashion these adaptations for a utensil. This unique approach makes occupational therapy a vital part of health care for patients. People feel better emotionally when they can engage in everyday activities and hobbies.
Our therapists at Agewell Physical Therapy help with the following conditions:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- DeQuervain’s Syndrome
- Nerve Compression Injuries
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
- Tendon Injuries/Repair
- CMC (Carpal-Metacarpal OA / Arthroplasty
- Mallet Finger
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Brachial Plexus Injuries / Neuropathy
- Carpal fracture / Instability
- Epicondylosis / Epicondylitis
- Triangular Fibrocartilage Injuries
- Finger Amputation
Contact a physical therapist today at Agewell Physical Therapy. Our certified and caring therapists are committed to helping you get on the road to recovery. Feel better and get back to your life with occupational therapy and physical therapy in North New Hyde Park, NY.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!