Occupational Therapy – Hand Specialists

Our everyday lives are filled with tasks that require our hands. We rely on our hands to complete daily tasks such as eating, dressing, bathing, typing, texting, and recreational activities. When an injury occurs to our hands, the impact is seen in every aspect of our daily lives. That’s where hand therapy comes into play, helping you to restore the upper extremities and get back to the things you love.

Your Certified Hand Therapist is compassionate, guiding you every step of the way in your recovery. With unwavering support, they equip you with the tools, adaptations, and exercises needed to regain functional independence after an upper extremity injury. For instance, if you fall and break your wrist, it may require surgery. Afterwards, simple tasks such as making a fist, writing, typing, driving, dressing, bathing, and even independent toileting become challenging. Your hand therapist will address your needs and help you reach your goals to regain motion and complete these tasks again. They’ll make a protective splint for your wrist and provide you with exercises that you complete when not in therapy.  They support you throughout your recovery ensuring you can get back to your level of function before your injury.  

At ProFlex, our Certified Hand Therapists work in convenient locations making it easier for you to attend your appointments.  But most importantly, we care about you and want to help you feel better. Your journey to getting back to normal starts here, where we use both art and science to make sure your hands work well again as you move through life.

What is a Certified Hand Therapist?

A hand therapist is an occupational therapist (OT) or physical therapist (PT) who, through advanced continuing education, clinical experience and integration of knowledge in anatomy, physiology and kinesiology, has become proficient in treatment of pathological upper extremity conditions resulting from trauma, disease, congenital or acquired deformity. These therapists can treat basic hand conditions. (Cite: ASHT.org)

To obtain the CHT credential, a hand therapist must practice for a minimum of three years, accumulating at least 4,000 hours of treatment for hand and upper extremity disorders. Certified hand therapists must also pass a rigorous certification exam to demonstrate their competency in the practice. Because of changes in the profession, every CHT is required to demonstrate continued professional development and competency by recertifying every five years.

CHTs specialize in treating hand and upper extremity conditions. They work closely with orthopedic and general surgeons who also specialize in the hand to ensure maximal outcomes for patients.

Your hand is an intricate and complex part of your body. Hand surgery is a delicate process due to the complex anatomy of the hand and wrist.  After surgery, getting better can be difficult. That’s where a Certified Hand Therapist comes in. They are the experts in the rehabilitation process following injuries to the hand and arm.  Their expertise in the treatment of hand and arm injuries ensures the greatest opportunity for full recovery. 

What Conditions are Treated by Hand Therapists?

Our Certified Hand Therapists are the experts in dealing with problems of the hands and arm.   They’re experts in helping with a several of different hand and arm problems:

• Wrist and Hand Fractures.
• Wound Care following surgery or injury.
• Tendon and Nerve Injuries.
• Traumatic Amputation.
• Treatment of Burns to include wound care and scar management.
• Nerve Entrapments (pinched nerves) of the Upper Extremity.
• Brachial Plexus Injuries: We can help the network of nerves in the shoulder that sends signals for movement and feeling from the spine to the arms and hands. We can help you reduce numbness and tingling and regain motion and functional use after these injuries.
• Scar Management: We know how to help scars move more freely, look less noticeable and help you return to use with less sensitivity.
• Cumulative Trauma Injuries: We take care of injuries caused by doing the same motions over and over, making sure they don’t get worse and you recover fully.
• Custom Splints for Injuries: We can make special splints to protect and help you during your recovery. We make splints that can help improve your motion after an injury. 

Our Hand Therapists are ready to help with these problems and more, making sure the treatment plan fits your needs.

Benefits of seeing a Hand Therapist

A hand therapist, whether an occupational therapist or physical therapist, undergoes advanced study and extensive experience to specialize in the comprehensive care of individuals with conditions affecting the hands and upper extremities.

Comprehensive Evaluation and Treatment:

A qualified hand therapist possesses the expertise to assess and treat a wide array of issues related to the upper extremity. Whether it’s post-operative rehabilitation, preventative care, non-operative treatment, or industry consultation, a hand therapist ensures a thorough and effective approach.

Collaborative Care:

Working closely with both physicians and patients, a hand therapist establishes a seamless continuum of care. This collaborative effort begins within days of an injury or surgery, extending through the patient’s return to work and/or resumption of a productive lifestyle.

Why Choose ProFlex’s Certified Hand Therapists?

Here at ProFlex, we take pride in our exceptional team of Certified Hand Therapists, strategically located in various convenient locations. Our commitment to your upper extremity needs encompasses:

Specialized Assessments:

Rigorous assessments tailored to your unique condition, ensuring a precise understanding of your rehabilitation requirements.

Advanced Treatment Interventions:

Utilizing cutting-edge treatment interventions, our therapists employ evidence-based practices to optimize your recovery.

Custom Splint Fabrication:

Explore personalized solutions with our custom splint fabrication service, providing tailored support and protection during your recovery journey.

Compassionate Care:

Above all, we offer compassionate care, guiding you through every step of your recovery process. Our team is dedicated to not just restoring functionality but ensuring your entire recovery experience is supportive and uplifting.

Choose ProFlex for a comprehensive and compassionate approach to your upper extremity rehabilitation. Your journey to a full recovery begins with us.

Why Choose ProFlex Physical Therapy?

At ProFlex Physical Therapy, we understand that you have the right to select your occupational therapy provider, and we encourage prospective patients to make an informed decision that aligns with their needs. Here’s why ProFlex is the preferred choice for those seeking personalized, effective care:

Dedication to You: ProFlex is more than a occupational therapy provider; we’re dedicated to you as an individual. Recognizing that each patient is unique, with distinct goals and challenges, our team prioritizes personalized care. We listen attentively, working collaboratively with you to achieve results that resonate with your vision of living your best life.

Tailored Treatment Plans: Your journey to optimal health is unique, and so is your treatment plan at ProFlex. Regardless of your activity level or health goals, our team customizes each treatment plan to ensure it aligns seamlessly with what’s best for you. This commitment ensures a comprehensive and effective approach to your rehabilitation.

Community and Patient Recommendations: Our reputation speaks for itself. ProFlex Physical Therapy has been honored as the Best Physical Therapy Practice in Southern Maryland for the past six years, a testament to the trust and satisfaction of our community. Explore our 5-star Google reviews on each of our location pages to gain insights into the positive experiences our patients have had with us.

Award-Winning Excellence: ProFlex has consistently been recognized as the top choice for physical therapy in Southern Maryland. Our continuous commitment to excellence has been acknowledged through consecutive awards, reinforcing our dedication to delivering unparalleled care. Choose ProFlex Physical Therapy for a personalized, effective, and award-winning approach to your health and wellness journey. Discover the difference our team can make in helping you achieve your optimal level of well-being.