Who is a Hand Therapist and How Can They Help
Hand therapy is a sub specialisation of physiotherapy and occupational therapy. Hand therapists treat and diagnose conditions of the hand and wrist and help patients to resume normal activities after hand and wrist injuries, pain or pathology.
Most people fail to realize the value of their hands until they are subject to an injury or a disease. Often, we do not appreciate how much we rely on our hands and that we depend on them for most day-to-day activities.
Even the most minor injury and the slightest pain in the hand, fingers or wrist can result in significant discomfort and inconvenience. However, major traumatic issues of the hand can be especially debilitating and distressing.
Hand therapy is a sub-specialized branch of physiotherapy and occupational therapy. Hand therapists assess and treat issues of the hands and wrists. Hand therapists are recognised via the Australian Hand Therapy Association and undergo further training and examination.
Hand therapy on the Gold Coast is very much in demand. Some of the common causes for referrals to hand therapists include fractures, lacerations, neurological issues of the upper limb, burns, amputations, surgical repairs of nerves and tendons,arthritis or trauma.
How can hand therapists help?
A hand therapist firstly manages physical symptoms like scarring, pain, swelling and changes in nerve sensations.
After conducting a thorough evaluation of specific circumstances of a patient, they can advise on how to optimize the range of movement and strength of the hand so as to maximize the function of the hand and also avoid future injury.
Adaptive equipment must be chosen carefully, and helpful aids for daily living can be provided. The therapist may also recommend ergonomic adjustments for maximizing independent activity in daily life and encouraging a return to normal work.
The role of splints is especially crucial in some conditions. Splints, also referred to as orthoses or supports, are often needed during the process of recovery to reduce pain, resting joints in particular postures, and protecting bone, tendon, skin or artery surginal repairs.
The hand therapist will be able to evaluate what kind of splint can be most effective for the individual patient and should educate the patient about the importance of splint use. Then, hand therapists can fabricate and fit the splint while monitoring and adjusting the device with progress in recovery.
Treatment
It is common for hand therapists to regularly collaborate as a member of a multi-disciplinary team. They work closely with hand surgeons both before and after hand surgery to implement rehab programs. Training has been provided to hand therapists to understand the emotional, psychological, and social impacts of a hand injury. Hence, the relationship between patient and hand therapist is vital.
The rehab program of hand therapy encompasses many facets. Education, splint fabrication, wound care, exercise prescription and oedema/swelling management all fall under the role of the hand therapist.
In the case of a patient with serious burns, there will be a need for intensive sessions to be conducted several times a week. In the case of some others with other, less severe hand issues, they will be able to complete self-supervised home exercise programs independently after a few sessions with a hand therapist.
In summary, a successful hand therapy and rehab program depend on sound evaluation, adequate prescription of treatment and exercises, as well as proper training and advice with regular reviews and support. It is the skill of the hand therapist to ascertain the injury, or in the case of post-surgery, to communicate effectively with the surgeon and formulate a team-based approach to the rehab. For this, one can depend on hand therapy on the Gold Coast.
