Comprehensive Hand Therapy Program
It only takes a second to injure a hand, elbow or shoulder, but the recovery process often requires weeks or months. In fact, hand and upper extremity injuries happen to millions of Americans each year. These injuries not only affect daily functions but also interfere with work and leisure activity.
Imagine yourself leaving the doctor's office after such an injury. Perhaps you had emergency or elective surgery, or were treated conservatively. The doctor has said, "You'll be off work for a while, and I want you to have therapy." Off work? Therapy? Months to recover? Where do you turn?
The Comprehensive Hand Therapy Program at Methodist Hospital Physical Therapy and Rehab Center is the answer!
This specialized therapy program is focused on rehabilitation of the upper extremity from shoulder to fingertips. Our experienced staff includes Occupational Therapists and Certified Hand Therapist who are skilled in evaluation, therapy program development and splinting for various diagnoses. Our delivery of care is characterized by our special efforts to help patients feel comfortable and motivated throughout the rehabilitation process. We pride ourselves on our high-quality treatment that helps our patients successfully transition back into daily life, work and leisure activity.
What is a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT)?
A certified hand therapist is an occupational therapist or physical therapist who has a minimum of five years of clinical experience, including more than 2,000 hours of direct practice in hand therapy. In addition, the certified hand therapist must successfully pass a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper extremity rehabilitation. In the profession of hand therapy, the credentials for a certified hand therapist are CHT. These marks distinguish an occupational therapist as someone with the highest professional credential in the specialty of upper extremity rehabilitation. A CHT is a part of an exceptional group of therapists who have met the standards by experts in hand therapy. Methodist Hospital is very proud to employ such experts in the field.
Diagnoses Treated
- Cumulative trauma disorders
- Hand and arm fractures
- Tendon and nerve repairs
- Joint arthroplasties (shoulder to finger)
- Rotator cuff tear/repair
- Osteo and rheumatoid arthritis
- Burns - skin grafting
- Medial and lateral epicondylitis
- Nerve disorders
Treatment Provided
- Comprehensive hand and upper extremity evaluations
- Comprehensive therapy, shoulder to fingertip
- Edema control, scar management and de-sensitization
- Muscle sensory re-education and testing
- Baltimore therapeutic equipment (BTE) work simulator
- Custom static and dynamic splints
- Serial casting (hand only)
- Home exercise programs and education
- Work hardening
- In-clinic ergonomic education
- Joint protection and energy conservation
- ADL assessment
- Adaptive equipment assessment
Obtaining a Referral
We accept referrals from any practicing physicians, including orthopedists, neurologists, otolaryngologists, rheumatologists, generalists, etc. Please call (626) 821-6928 to make a referral. We are open convenient hours Monday through Friday.