{"id":1217,"date":"2023-05-10T10:14:47","date_gmt":"2023-05-10T10:14:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ariellawgroup.com\/practice-areas\/hand-injuries\/hand-and-wrist-injuries-in-sports-copy\/"},"modified":"2023-05-10T10:24:00","modified_gmt":"2023-05-10T10:24:00","slug":"occupational-therapy-for-hand-injuries","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ariellawgroup.com\/es\/practice-areas\/hand-injuries\/occupational-therapy-for-hand-injuries\/","title":{"rendered":"Occupational Therapy for Hand Injuries: What to Expect and its Benefits"},"content":{"rendered":"

Occupational therapy for hand injuries is a specialized therapy that focuses on rehabilitating the hand and wrist. This therapy is frequently used to recuperate from injuries ranging from carpal tunnel syndrome to fractures. Occupational therapists work with a patient to identify the best action to restore the affected hand’s function, strength, and range of motion. It may include stretching and strengthening exercises and activities of daily living (ADLs) to help the patient regain the skills necessary to perform daily tasks. <\/span><\/p>\n

The therapist may also introduce adaptive equipment to assist with dressing, cooking, and cleaning tasks. In addition, the therapist may offer advice on ergonomic practices to reduce the risk of future injury. The goal of occupational therapy for hand injuries<\/a> is to help patients regain their independence, increase their confidence, and return to their pre-injury level of function.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Distinguishes Physical Therapy from Occupational Therapy?<\/b><\/h2>\n

The American Physical Therapy Association<\/strong> and the American Occupational Therapy Association<\/strong> have established certain criteria based on which the scope of practice for professional occupational therapists and physical therapists vary. To put it another way, occupational therapy seeks to completely restore the ability to engage in an activity, whereas physical therapy focuses on regaining a certain type of movement.<\/span><\/p>\n

While both OT and PT address bodily dysfunction and offer a customized exercise programs, the focus on purposeful tasks and activities is what distinguishes Occupational Therapy from PT. In order to focus on specific skill development and maximize functional independence, occupational therapists are educated to assess and identify gaps between the person, environment, and occupation.<\/span><\/p>\n

To support functional recovery from injury, OTs can manufacture splints, instruct on environmental adjustments, address upper extremity and hand function, and incorporate goal-related activities into treatment programs. Occupation therapists tend to work on the arm and upper extremity, whereas physical therapists work to concentrate more on the neck, back, legs, and shoulders; this is especially true when both specialties are present in the same clinic.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Hand Injuries\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n

Hand injuries are effectively treated with occupational therapy. It can help individuals restore hand strength and movement while also helping them manage discomfort. It is also helpful in assisting people in returning to their everyday tasks and routine.<\/span><\/p>\n