Importance of Hand Therapy

Chattanooga, Tennessee

At Hayes Hand Center we recognize that many patients benefit greatly from the utilization of Certified Hand Therapists. We take great pride in the abilities and professionalism of our Certified Hand Therapists Jennifer Durham OTR/L, CHT and Eric Spreeman OTR/L, CHT. Our certified hand therapists are occupational therapists who have specialized in the art and science of rehabilitation of the upper extremities.

To become certified, the therapist must have a minimum of 5 years work experience with 4000 hours or more of direct practice in hand therapy.  They must also successfully complete a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper extremity rehabilitation. Because of changes in the field, ongoing continuing education is vital to keep current on treatment techniques.

Our Hand Center has included the expertise of hand therapists in our overall program since the late 1970’s. Not all patients require hand rehabilitation following their treatment and/or hand surgery. However, for those that do, having the treating physician and therapist working in the same office allows for optimal patient outcomes because of the close communication.

Conditions that may require intervention by a hand therapist include:

• Fractures
• Tendon injuries
• Nerve injuries
• Arthritis
• Soft tissue injury

The trained therapist may:

• Fabricate custom splints
• Perform wound care as indicated
• Develop an individual therapeutic program to expedite the patient’s recovery
• Help control the patient’s pain
• Work with the patient to make the transition back to their everyday lives as smooth as possible

In addition, our therapists are trained and competent in the evaluation of the patient’s level of impairment. They utilize the latest technological instrumentation in the measurement of strength, dexterity, range of motion, and sensory return.

Contact our Tennessee Hand Specialist and our Hand Therapists in Chattanooga for a hand surgery evaluation.