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RAMC's Occupational Therapists treat people of all ages to help return them to a productive, independent lifestyle.
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Occupational Therapy for treatment of hand problems:
A hand injury can occur in a moment, but the social, financial and emotional effects could last a lifetime.
Problems wilth hand function can also develop over time and eventually interfere with daily life. Among these problems are:
difficulty in movement
lack of strength
tiring
lack of coordination
pain or numbness
swelling
Occupational therapy is often recommended for people who are experiencing difficulties wiht hand function do to:
amputations
arthritis
sports injury
burns
carpal tunnel syndrome
tendonitis
fractures
nerve injuries
peripheral neuropathies
spinal cord injuries
strokes
sprains and strains
tendon injuries
wounds
Occupational therapy treatment for hand problems may include:
- caring for your wounds
- guiding you through techniques to improve range of motion, sensation or strength
- fabricating a splint to positions, protect, strengthen or increase function
- evaluating your ability to perform the tasks required on your job and designing a program to help you achieve the necessary skills
- analyzing your need for changes in your work environment, to prevent further injury or difficulty on the job
- providing you with special equipment to improve function
- fitting and training you in the use of an artificial hand
Occupational Therapy when you are recovering from a stroke:
Problems resulting from a stroke may include:
- temporary or permanent weakness of one side of the body
- problems with vision and reading
- difficulties with memory or speech
These problems may interfere with your ability to:
- care for personal needs like bathing and dressing
- prepare meals and care for your home
- move about in the community, drive a car or use public transportation
- participate in work, educational and leisure activities
While you are recovering, occupational therapy can help you with:
- learn new ways to manage daily tasks such as eating, dressing and bathing
- obtain special assistive equipment to help you function more independently
- discover ways to increase your physical strength, endurance and mobility
- compensate for losses of sensation and vision
- develop the skills necessary to return to work, household tasks and community activities