HAND THERAPY TREATMENT AT ALASKA HAND REHABILITATION
HAND THERAPY TREATMENT AT ALASKA HAND REHABILITATION
OUR HAND THERAPY TREATMENT
Hand Therapy is the art and science of rehabilitation of the shoulder, arm, and hand. It merges comprehensive knowledge of the upper extremity with the skills and therapeutic techniques of the professions of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy.
This specialty was developed in response to advancements in technology and surgical techniques that have enabled the greater functional restoration of injured upper limbs.
Our therapists demonstrate a commitment to the specialty by becoming Certified Hand Therapists (CHTs) and by maintaining membership in the American Society of Hand Therapists.
WHY CHOOSE US
Our clinic maintains a friendly and informal, yet professional environment that instantly puts our patients at ease. For added comfort, our treatment process always begins with reducing the patient’s pain and/or fear of pain while ensuring that we focus on their goals for function.
To ensure the best results, we encourage compliance with surgeon’s protocols and precautions to protect surgical repairs.
Patient education is the foundation of our treatment because we believe that an informed patient can be optimally effective in therapy. Because of this, we emphasize the importance of participation to patients throughout the process of reaching their therapy goals. Additionally, we welcome feedback and ongoing input from treating physicians, PA’s and FNPs.
WHY CHOOSE US
Our clinic maintains a friendly and informal, yet professional environment that instantly puts our patients at ease. For added comfort, our treatment process always begins with reducing the patient’s pain and/or fear of pain while ensuring that we focus on their goals for function.
To ensure the best results, we encourage compliance with surgeon’s protocols and precautions to protect surgical repairs. Patient education is the foundation of our treatment because we believe that an informed patient can be optimally effective in therapy. Because of this, we emphasize the importance of participation to patients throughout the process of reaching their therapy goals. Additionally, we welcome feedback and ongoing input from treating physicians, PA’s and FNPs.
WHAT WE PROVIDE
The treatment of upper extremity pain and dysfunction requires a multi-faceted approach. We attempt to identify the cause of the injury, the current related factors, sites of physical injury, in addition to patient concerns and goals. Following the initial assessment, the treatment focuses on the individual by eliminating pain while regaining lost motion and abilities. It may include visits to the workplace, communication with physicians, families, schools, and attorneys, as well as referrals to other professionals.
WHAT WE PROVIDE
The treatment of upper extremity pain and dysfunction requires a multi-faceted approach. We attempt to identify the cause of the injury, the current related factors, sites of physical injury, in addition to patient concerns and goals. Following the initial assessment, the treatment focuses on the individual by eliminating pain while regaining lost motion and abilities. It may include visits to the workplace, communication with physicians, families, schools, and attorneys, as well as referrals to other professionals.
HAND, ARM & SHOULDER ASSESSMENTS
Patients are given a thorough evaluation to determine the site and extent of their injury before the therapist offers any recommendations or begins treatment. After the therapist develops an understanding of the injury, it often becomes clear that a specific activity has contributed to causing the damage. An ergonomic assessment may then be recommended in order to identify and halt strain that is work-related. Both assessments may be performed at the work site or, when possible, may be simulated in the clinic.
HAND, ARM & SHOULDER ASSESSMENTS
Patients are given a thorough evaluation to determine the site and extent of their injury before the therapist offers any recommendations or begins treatment. After the therapist develops an understanding of the injury, it often becomes clear that a specific activity has contributed to causing the damage. An ergonomic assessment may then be recommended in order to identify and halt strain that is work-related. Both assessments may be performed at the work site or, when possible, may be simulated in the clinic.
Alaska Hand Rehabilitation maintains a wide diversity of referral sources. We become involved in the assessment and treatment of many types of trauma and overuse injuries that impact the lives of our patients.
Our team also offers expertise in custom splint construction for protection or mobilization, along with a variety of adaptive devices for those with challenges in independent function.
CORPORATE & COMMUNITY SERVICES
One of our goals is to educate the community — including employers and employees — about what we do. Over the years, we’ve seen a tremendous increase in awareness of ergonomics issues and Repetitive Strain Injury. This has been in large part due to extensive education via newspaper articles, television, and word-of-mouth.
As a result, we have also seen changes in attitudes of employers, physicians, the insurance industry, and the public. There is an increased willingness to optimize worker comfort and avoid the high costs of treatment and loss of productivity.
To continue this improved awareness, we also offer presentations on:
● Overuse/Repetitive Strain Injury & Alternatives to Reducing the Frequency of These Injuries
● Assisting with Risk Assessment
● Encouraging Injury Prevention & Early Management
