What is Hand Therapy

Hand therapy is the art and science of rehabilitation of the upper extremity of the human body. It is designed to help patients regain maximum use of their hand after a traumatic injury or the effects of a cumulative trauma disorder. Treatment is usually provided by a hand therapist.

Hand therapists are Occupational Therapists or Physical Therapists with specialized training of upper extremity function. Using specialized skills in assessment and treatment, hand therapists work with patients to prevent injury or impairment, restore functional activity, and enhance participation in daily life. A therapist may also further his or her education by earning advanced certification to become a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT). This credential offers assurance to the patient that the therapist has achieved the highest level of competency in the profession.

What Does a Hand Therapist Provide?
A qualified hand therapist can evaluate and treat any problem related to the upper extremities. The hand therapists at The Centre for Working Hands can effectively treat and rehabilitate the patient through postoperative rehabilitation, preventative, conservative, or non-operative treatment, or industry consultation. Our therapists work closely with the physician and patient to ensure that the treatment received is the most effective option for that particular condition. This often starts within days of the injury or surgery and continues through the patient’s return to work and/or a productive lifestyle.

Examples of Rehabilitative Treatment

• Management of acute or chronic pain
• Desensitization following nerve injury or trauma
• Management of open or sutured wounds
• Sensory re-education after nerve injury
• Design and implementation of exercise programs to increase motion, dexterity and/or strength
• Splint fabrication for prevention or corrections of injury
• Training in the performance of daily life skills through adapted methods and equipment
• Conditioning prior to returning to work

Injury Prevention Training
The Centre for Working Hands is committed to helping local businesses minimize the risks of job-related injuries for their employees. Our hand therapists consult with a wide range of industries, helping them to establish injury prevention programs for workers. Our hand therapists assess the work environment, identify risk factors, recommend modifications of workstations and alternative work methods to help ensure healthy work styles of all employees.

Why use a Hand Therapy specialist?

• Accurate assessments, immediate care, and effective treatment reduce treatment time.
• The continuum of care eliminates the need for multiple medical providers.
• Faster recovery results in decreased medical costs.
• Resulting functional outcomes ensure a faster return to work and productive lifestyle.