On your initial visit the hand therapist will perform a thorough evaluation and provide a treatment plan specified to fit your individual goals and needs. The hand therapist will discuss treatment techniques that can help you reach your optimal rehab potential. Education will be provided throughout the rehab journey. Implementing the recommended exercises, wearing your splint if applicable, and following all precautions outside of therapy is critical to your outcome. Hand therapists are here to advance or adjust your program to maximize your functional use and return to daily living including work and sports. At CAO, the hand therapists have direct contact with the CAO hand surgeons and can access all imaging, physician visits, and operative reports in order to provide you the best comprehensive care.

Hand therapists utilize many treatment techniques that include manual therapy, modalities, strength and conditioning, Blood Flow Restriction Training, and functional tasks to improve your independence. Below are just a few options however not all of these techniques will be appropriate for you and will be at the discretion of the specialized hand therapist based on your rehab needs, precautions, and contra indications.

• Manual therapy may include soft tissue mobilization, cupping, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, edema mobilization, and scar management.
• Modalities may include heat and/or cold therapy, compression therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation (IFC, NMES, TENs).
• Strength and conditioning is tailored to your injury phase and progressed appropriately.
• Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFRT) is a technique that is utilized for improving muscle function in appropriate patients. The system works through the application of a specialized and low risk tourniquet system to a limb. This creates an environment in the muscle tissue to allow strength improvements with low loads. There are a variety of theories about why these strength gains occur including anabolic system response, cellular swelling, or metabolite build up.
• Functional tasks… what better way to rehab than completing tasks that are functional and meaningful to you!