Hand Rehabilitation & Splinting
Hand therapy services at UOP are provided by experienced Hand Therapists(HT). A Hand Therapist is a Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist who has a minimum of 4000 hours of hand therapy experience in addition to their degree. The HTs at Upper Ottawa Physiotherapy have extensive experience in dealing with hand and upper limb conditions. They participate in ongoing education opportunities and are actively involved in the training and certification of Physiotherapy students and Plastic Surgery Resident at McMaster University's Schools of Rehabilitation Science and Medicine.
A Hand Therapist has expertise in the assessment and management of a variety of problems including:
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At UOP our Hand Therapists provide custom made splints. With referrals from Surgeons throughout the region, our HTs will build the splint that is right for your condition and educate you on how to get the best result.
Our HTs can provide:
- Explanations to help understand your injury of condition and the anticipated recovery
- An individualized exercise program to gain back your movement and strength
- Wound care, swelling and scar management
- Pain management
- Desensitization for injuries that result in increased sensitivity to touch, cold, heat, etc
- Advice on positioning, work practice
- Consultation to determine the best path for you
Why choose a Hand Therapist?
Our hands are two of the most important parts of our body. Without the use of one or both of them, even the simplest everyday tasks become extremely challenging. It makes sense to trust the most important part of your body to professionals with expertise and specialized training. You wouldn't want a landscaper to fix your plumbing; you wouldn't want a physiotherapist to fix your car. A Hand Therapist is the best and most logical choice for hand and upper limb injuries.
UOP's Hand Clinic was the first on the Hamilton Mountain and has been an innovative part of the rehabilitation community for the past 40 years. For more information on our Hand Therapists, see Our staff.
Taping and Bracing
Patients often say "If only I could take you home with me!" Taping is a treatment technique that you take with you. It is also an extremely effective technique for reducing pain, preventing further injury and improving your function.
The tape supports the muscle or joint that is injured. It essentially gives the muscles a break so they can heal. The relaxation of the injured area facilitates an earlier return of movement and function.
Physios at UOP have the knowledge and skill to apply the tape and provide bracing in a manner best suited to achieve the above goals.
