Hand Therapy
The Hand and Upper Extremity Therapy program of the Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio is a specialized therapy program designed to help patients return to their previous work and life roles, and/or to promote maximum independence within a given limitation.
The program provides therapy to restore function for individuals with:
Based at Miami Valley Hospital and The Sports Medicine Center, Centerville Satellite, this comprehensive program included rehabilitation services for inpatients and outpatients with impairments ranging from a stiff finger or fracture to dislocation, crushing injuries, tendonitis, lacerations, tendon, and nerve injuries.
Evaluation and Treatment Plans
With a referral from the physician, a certified hand therapist develops the patient’s individualized treatment plan based on capabilities, goals and overall health status. Treatment goals are established and reassessed with the patient and family.
Restoring Hand Function
Based on individual needs and goals, therapy may include:
- Initiation of early, therapeutically-designed motion programs to prevent joint contractures, scar adhesion, and long-term disability
- Specific techniques to promote upper extremity wound healing, soft tissue mobility, and decrease scar tissue formation
- Static and dynamic splint fabrication to protect fractures, increase motion, preserve function, stretch contracted tissue, and reduce edema
- Therapeutic activities to facilitate return to work and independence with daily living skills, along with home programs to maximize patient and condition rehabilitation goals
Conditions Treated
The Hand Therapy program specializes in the rehabilitation for both surgical and non-surgical hand injuries. We treat a variety of hand conditions including:
A Continuum of Care
We offer a continuum of care guided by specialists in hand therapy. Our team of experienced occupational and board-certified hand therapists provide treatment that includes:
- Custom splinting
- Edema control
- Exercise for motion dexterity and strength
- Joint protection techniques
- Scar management/manual therapy
- Work simulation
- Wound care
Treatments include:
- BTE – Computer-based activity simulator that recreates real-world job tasks in a clinical setting
- Cold laser – Low-intensity or low levels of laser light
- Continuous passive motion – A treatment to improve range of motion and function
- Electric stimulation – Electrical currents that activate nerves
- Fluidotherapy – A high intensity heat treatment
- Ultrasound – Medical imaging technique used to visualize muscles, tendons, or internal organs
To receive outpatient hand therapy services, a prescription is needed from a physician, which includes patient diagnosis and states that an occupational therapy evaluation is needed.
Preparing for Hand Therapy
Premier Health Library
The Premier Health Library offers a wealth of information about hand therapy. Learn about conditions, treatments, how to prepare for surgery, and much more.
Content Updated: November 25, 2014