Hand therapy是什麼意思
"Hand therapy" is a specialized field within occupational therapy and physical therapy that focuses on the treatment of hand, wrist, and upper extremity injuries and conditions. It involves the use of various techniques, including exercise, splinting, manual therapy, and education, to improve function, reduce pain, and increase the range of motion in the affected areas.
Hand therapists work with individuals who have a variety of conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, fractures, arthritis, and other injuries or disorders that affect the hand and upper extremities. They develop individualized treatment plans to help patients recover from surgery, prevent disability, and improve their ability to perform daily activities.
Hand therapy treatments may include:
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Splinting and Casting: To support and protect the affected area while it heals.
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Exercise Programs: To strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion.
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Manual Therapy: Techniques to reduce pain and improve mobility, such as massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue mobilization.
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Education: Providing patients with information about their condition, how to manage it, and how to prevent future injuries.
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Modalities: The use of heat, cold, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
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Home Program Instruction: Teaching patients exercises and techniques they can perform at home to aid in their recovery.
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Ergonomic Advice: Suggestions on how to adjust workstations, tools, and activities to reduce the risk of injury and improve comfort.
Hand therapists may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. They often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as orthopedic surgeons, rheumatologists, and primary care physicians, to provide comprehensive care for their patients.