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What is a hand therapist?
All of the Hand Therapists at the Oklahoma Hospital for Orthopedics are Certified Hand Therapists or are board eligible. This means that they are already licensed as an occupational therapist or physical therapist but, to be Certified Hand Therapists, they also have completed a minimum of five years of clinical experience, including 4,000 hours or more in direct practice in hand therapy, and they passed a comprehensive test in advanced clinical skills and theory. Additionally, they must be re-certified every five years.
How do I sign up for hand therapy?
Oklahoma state law requires a physician's referral for you to enter a hand therapy program. Your physician may recommend hand therapy for a particular problem you have, or you can ask for a referral from your doctor if a problem is affecting your ability to perform activities of daily living independently.
How long will I be in hand therapy?
Hand therapy is a highly individualized program of treatment. The therapist does an evaluation to identify areas that are causing you pain or limitation and prescribes a treatment program that targets each specific problem. Additionally, goals are established to measure progress and each person advances toward goals at an individuals own rate. In general, therapy may be accomplished in 8 to 12 sessions, or it may take longer. Your therapist can explain what to expect for your treatment.
How long does it take to get results in hand therapy?
Because no two people are alike, even if their problems are similar, it is difficult to predict how long it will take to see results. However, your treatment program will be designed to move you forward at a rate that is appropriate for you. Hand therapy is designed to help you get better in stages. Trying too hard can cause you further problems, while neglecting recommended home activities and exercises will slow your progress.
How long is each hand therapy session?
Most hand therapy sessions are 30 minutes to 1 hour in length, and the typical treatment program requires 2 to 3 sessions per week. This may vary depending on individual needs.
Are hand therapy sessions painful?
If pain is part of the reason you have been referred for hand therapy, you may experience some pain as you perform the prescribed exercises and activities. However, pain relief will be one of the goals of your therapy, and each element of your treatment will help to strengthen muscles and increase the functional capacity of your hand without pain. You will be asked to rate any pain on a scale of 1 to 10 when you start therapy, and your therapist will ask you periodically to re-evaluate your pain both at rest and during therapy activities. Pain should lessen gradually as you progress in your treatment, and your therapist can teach you how to use ice and heat for relief of any soreness you may feel after therapy sessions.
What should I do if my pain increases after a hand therapy session?
You may experience some soreness after a therapy session, which is normal. However, you should always contact your therapist if your pain abruptly increases or if you develop a new type or source of pain. You may be referred back to your physician for further evaluation and treatment. In some cases, your therapy can be continued while this treatment is being received, or your therapy may be temporarily discontinued until your new symptoms improve.
Who decides when my hand therapy treatment is over?
Your hand therapist designs a treatment program to help you reach specific goals. Your progress is measured as you continue through the treatment program, and you and your therapist determine together when satisfactory progress is being made and when you can be discharged from treatment. Continuing to practice what you have learned is important for long-term results. In some cases, your physician will be consulted. However, the decision that therapy goals have been accomplished is generally between you and your therapist.
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