An Occupational Hand Therapist is a specialised healthcare professional who focuses on rehabilitating and treating conditions affecting the hands, wrists, and upper limbs. These therapists are trained in both occupational therapy and hand therapy, enabling them to address a wide range of issues related to the function and mobility of the upper extremities.
Services Provided by our Occupational Hand Therapist
Assessment and Diagnosis
A thorough assessment is conducted to diagnose conditions and determine the best course of treatment. This includes evaluating strength, range of motion, pain, sensation and functional abilities. They will work with a patient’s referring practitioners on any other imaging that may be needed to help understand their condition.
Treatment Planning
Based on the assessment and working with the patient, our Therapist will develop an individualised treatment plans tailored to the individual’s needs. These plans aim to restore function, reduce pain, and improve overall quality of life.
Therapeutic Exercises
Our Hand Therapist will design and guide a patient through specific exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance coordination. These exercises are crucial for recovery and regaining functional use of the hand and upper limb.
Manual Therapy
Depending on the diagnosis our therapist will use hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, and stretching to alleviate pain, reduce stiffness, and improve movement.
Splinting and Orthotic Prescription and Fabrication
Our Hand Therapists can create custom splints and orthotic devices to support, protect, and immobilise injured areas. These devices help in healing and prevent further injury. Depending on an individual’s needs our Therapist may prescribe an ‘off the shelf’ brace or custom make an orthosis.
Oedema and Scar Management
Our Hand Therapists can provide interventions to manage swelling (edema) and scar tissue, which can significantly impact hand function and appearance. We custom make some compression socks and gloves in the clinic as well as use ‘off the shelf’ products.
Pain Management
Various methods can be employed by the Therapist to manage and reduce pain, including heat (wax baths) and cold therapy.
Patient Education and Training
To help a patient in between appointments, our Therapists will educate them on injury prevention, ergonomics, and strategies to perform daily activities safely and efficiently. They also provide advice on hand and upper limb adaptive equipment and techniques to enhance independence such as for those who experience arthritis.
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
For patients recovering from hand surgery, a Hand Therapists plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process, helping them regain strength, function, and mobility. Our Therapists has experience in managing all plastic and orthopaedic post operative needs and can work with a patient’s surgeons on any follow up required.
For more information on our Occupational Therapist, please see our practitioner profiles page.
