Hand Therapy
Swedish Hospital's Hand and Upper Extremity Rehabilitation Center assists people with a variety of injuries and neurological conditions regain maximum use of their hands and upper body.
To schedule an appointment, call
773-878-6888.
What is Hand Therapy?
Our certified hand therapists (CHTs) work closely with patients to assess the condition and develop an individualized treatment plan. Hand therapy is offered on an outpatient basis. Treatment length varies.
Hand therapy may include the following:
- Supervised exercises for range of motion, strength, dexterity and pain relief
- Guided exercises for fine motor coordination
- The Baltimore Therapeutic Equipment System, a state-of-the-art rehabilitation tool that duplicates the physical challenges of everyday tasks
- Biometrics' E-LINK system, a computerized upper-extremity evaluation and exercise system for strength, range of motion and endurance
- Acute and chronic pain management
- Splints to prevent or correct injury
- Retraining on activities of daily living
- Work conditioning, ergonomics education and work station modifications
- Family and caregiver education to ensure you get the support you need
- Close coordination and communication with your primary care physician
Benefits Of Hand & Upper Extremity Therapy
The benefits of hand and upper extremity therapy apply to a wide audience, including workers involved with heavy equipment, data entry and assembly line; athletes; musicians and chronic arthritis sufferers.
Conditions benefiting from hand therapy include:
- Fractures
- Tendinitis and tendon injuries, sprains and strains
- Nerve injuries and nerve compression
- Arthritis
- Amputation
- Burns
- Carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive strain injuries
- Work-related injuries
Requirements For Hand Therapy
You must have a physician's order for hand therapy. Treatment is covered by most insurance policies; check with your carrier to be sure.
What is a Certified Hand Therapist?
CHTs have a minimum of five years clinical experience, including 2,000 hours or more of direct practice in hand therapy. In addition, all CHTs have passed a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper extremity rehabilitation and must continue education courses annually to maintain certification and ensure that they are up to date on the latest techniques.
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