Hand Therapy, sometimes also referred to as Occupational Therapy, is the specialized area of rehabilitation focused on the re-strengthening, retraining and recovery of range of motion associated with injuries and conditions affecting the hand, wrist and elbow.
This type of specialized therapy requires a special understanding of the biomechanics and intricate network of the small bones, joints, tendons, ligaments and nerves of the hand and upper extremity.
Within days of an injury or immobilization of an injured limb stiffness begins to take hold, as energy in the injured limb is distributed elsewhere. Hand therapy is critical to reclaiming the energy and restoring strength and range of motion in affected limbs and associated joints. The range of exercises developed for each type of injury, combined with scar tissue reduction techniques, are key to restoring complete function.
Dr. Jafarnia works closely with some of Houston’s best board-certified hand therapists to develop a complete treatment plan – including both surgical and non-surgical treatments, as well as therapeutic pre-operative preparation and postoperative strengthening and resumption of function.
The primary areas of focus in Hand Therapy include:
- Patient Education/Instruction
- Wound Care and Optimization
- Splint Fabrication and Adjustments
- Conservative Management including Ultrasound Modalities, Dry Needling, Laser Therapy
- Post Surgical Therapy (critical early resumption of movement to avoid permanent stiffness)
Whether patients suffer from a chronic repetitive stress condition such as carpal tunnel syndrome or a traumatic injury such as a fracture or ligament tear hand therapy is a critical part of recovery and an optimal outcome.
Hand therapy can also help the active as well as the amateur and professional athlete alike refine a stance or movement, in order to reduce the risk of a repetitive stress injury/condition, or avoid a recurrence.
The field of hand therapy has advanced significantly over the years. The understanding of the anatomy and function of the hand and upper extremity supported by scientific research continues to enhance the technology and therapeutic techniques designed to better diagnose, treat and restore optimal hand, wrist and elbow function.