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Hand therapy is the specialized treatment of an upper extremity injury designed to restore range of motion, strength and overall function. It is a subspecialty of occupational and physical therapy that has existed, in its present form, for 20 to 30 years. Hand therapists are part of the occupational therapy department and treat a variety of orthopaedic, cumulative trauma and hand trauma injuries. At Concord Hospital, there are three certified hand therapists with advanced training in the treatment of complex hand injuries.
After carefully evaluating a patient’s injury, hand therapists design a treatment program specifically for the patient. The therapists will look at how the injury impacts independence at home and at work and will modify treatment as needed to help the patient return to normal activities independently and without risk of further injury. As part of rehabilitation services’ team-based approach to care, therapists work closely with a patient’s referring physician and communicate frequently to ensure the best outcome.
Hand therapy can help treat conditions affecting children, adults and the elderly, such as:
- Arthritis
- Amputations/replantations
- Nerve injuries/repairs
- Tendon injuries/repairs
- Crush injuries
- Fractures (including postsurgical) of the hand, wrist and elbow
- Multiple trauma of the hand
- Dupytren’s release (postoperatively)
- Repetitive motion injuries (including carpal tunnel and lateral and medial epicondylitis)
- Burn injuries
- Ligament/soft tissue injuries
Hand therapy is offered at the Memorial Building, The Heights and Center for Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation. Appointments are available between 7 am and 7 pm.
Contact:
Ph: (603) 227-7070
Where Can I Find Out More?
National Rehabilitation Association
American Speech and Hearing Association
The American Occupational Therapy Association
American Physical Therapy Association
American Society of Hand Therapists
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