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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.

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 is to help patients regain their independence, increase their confidence, and return to their pre-injury level of function.

What Distinguishes Physical Therapy from Occupational Therapy?

The American Physical Therapy Association and the American Occupational Therapy Association 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.

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.

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. 

The Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Hand Injuries 

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.

  • Occupational therapist may employ several approaches to assist clients in managing hand injuries. They can give hands-on therapy, such as massage and stretching, to relieve acute hand pain and increasing mobility.

  •  Therapists may also use splints and other devices to support and stabilize the hand considering it a crucial step in the recovery process following an injury or hand surgery.

  • People also benefit from occupational therapy to help them adjust to their new limits. Therapists may educate and advise patients on using their hands safely and effectively.

  • They also work with clients to identify strategies to do daily activities with minor strain.

It is critical to understand that occupational therapy is a long-term process. It necessitates the individual getting treatment’s commitment and dedication. Individuals might, nevertheless, make tremendous progress in their rehabilitation program with the correct therapeutic approach. It can help individuals restore hand strength and movement while also managing discomfort. Individuals can make considerable progress in their rehabilitation with the right therapeutic strategy.

The Process of Occupational Therapy for Hand Injuries 

Occupational therapy involves people with physical, mental, or developmental problems in developing, improving, or maintaining the skills and abilities required for daily living. Occupational therapy for hand injuries is intended to assist persons to help them recover from their injuries and returning to their previous or greater level of functioning. It often involves helping clients regain range of motion, strength, coordination, balance, and the capacity to conduct everyday activities. A certified hand therapist will evaluate the individual’s requirements and create a plan for their treatment that may include therapeutic activities and adapted equipment. The occupational therapists also educate you on effectively caring for your injury and avoiding future problems. Occupational therapy for hand injuries may also involve exercises and activities to help with fine motor skills, sensory processing, and coordination. As a result, individuals can enhance their hand function and quality of life with treatment.

Insurance Coverage for Hand Injury Occupational Therapy 

Having an injury to the hand can be a severe matter to anyone, especially for those employed in occupations that require frequent use of their hands. Occupational therapy can be an essential part of the healing process after a hand injury, helping the patient restore strength and function to the affected area. However, insurance coverage for occupational therapy related to a hand injury can vary significantly depending on the insurance provider and the patient’s policy. As a result, it’s critical to check with your insurance company to see what kinds of coverage are available for occupational therapy to treat a hand injury. In certain situations, the patient may be obliged to pay the total cost of the therapy; in others, the patient may be expected to pay only a fraction of the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much time is spent in occupational therapy?

Individual needs determine how long therapy or treatment sessions should last. The length of a session is flexible and might range from 30 to an hour.

2. Why do patients require occupational therapy?

How Come Someone Would Need Occupational Therapy? | Concorde…
For people who, due to disease, discomfort, injury, or disability, find it difficult to care for themselves, move with ease, or carry out regular tasks at work or in school, occupational therapy is an excellent option.

3. What conditions may an occupational therapist diagnose?

Can occupational therapists make diagnoses? Occupational therapists do not make medical diagnoses of patients. Diagnoses for people with disorders including depression, anxiety, sensory processing disorder, autism, ADHD, etc. can be made by doctors and psychologists.

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