Hand Therapy

Hand injuries or hand arthritis can be complex. Comprehensive treatment is key to helping people regain full use of their hands. Hand therapy can be similar to occupational therapy for people with hand injuries, arthritis and carpal tunnel.

Hand Therapy Team at UMass Memorial Medical Center

Our Hand Therapy team is nationally certified and provides expert care in evaluating the patients’ functional ability to use their hands. Both adults and children benefit from the skill of our experienced hand therapy team throughout the treatment and rehabilitation process.

Members of the total care team meet regularly to ensure maximum coordination of care, so that patients can return to their daily activities as quickly as possible.

Hand Therapy in Central Massachusetts

Therapy interventions are designed to improve strength and motion, decrease pain and improve functional use in adults and children who have been affected by conditions including:

• Amputation
• Tendonitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Arthritis
• Joint replacement
• Hand injuries

Hand Therapy Treatment in Central Massachusetts

Hand therapists provide a thorough baseline evaluation of the patient, including range of motion, strength, sensation and functional hand and arm use.

Based on the initial baseline evaluation, hand therapists then provide comprehensive computerized evaluations that determine hand function and impairment. The results of these tests are often used to plan therapy programs or make recommendations regarding temporary or permanent disability.

Individualized treatment interventions created may include:

• AMA guided evaluation system (5^th addition)
• Custom splinting
• Desensitization
• Greenleaf Evaluation for impairment rating
• Joint mobilization
• Joint protection
• Scar management
• Sensory re-education
• Therapeutic modalities
• Upper extremity lymphedema management

Custom Splinting Services in Central Massachusetts

For patients who need protective equipment, a variety of custom splints are made to protect or position joints and soft tissue in patients. Splints may be used for patients with the following conditions:

• Arthritis
• Repetitive motion syndromes
• Post fracture or surgery
• Hand function difficulties

Appointments for Hand Therapy at UMass Memorial Medical Center

To schedule an appointment, a physician referral is required. Please contact 855-UMASS-MD (855-862-7763).

For immediate needs, walk-in service for urgent evaluation and splinting is available. Additional in-home exercise programs are available daily to meet the immediate needs of the patient as directed by the physician.