JUNE 7 – 13 IS HAND THERAPY WEEK

· Hand therapy is the art and science of evaluating and treating injuries and conditions of the upper extremity (shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist and hand).

· Hand therapy uses a number of therapeutic interventions to help return a person to their highest level of function.

· Hand therapy evolved from the need for a specialist with the knowledge and experience required to manage the challenging recovery of complex hand and upper extremity injuries.

Who Are Hand Therapists?

Hand therapists are licensed or registered occupational therapists or physical therapists who, through advanced study and experience, specialize in treating individuals with conditions affecting the hands and upper extremity.

Hand Safety in the Kitchen

To prevent injuries while preparing meals:

· Different foods require different cutting methods

· Use special cutting tools specific for different foods

· Slow down & pay attention

To reduce stress on your fingers & wrist joints:

· Use tools designed to help you open jars & bottles

· Find easy open canisters for storing common ingredients

· Use a push cart instead of carrying a basket

· Avoid carrying grocery bags in your hands – drape over forearms

· Carry small loads

Take extra caution during clean up:

· Broken glass and sharp objects can cause serious injuries & lacerations to the hand

· Never submerge knives in soapy water where you can’t see them

For more hand safety videos and patient education

visit ASHT (American Society of Hand Therapists).

What Can Our Hand Therapist Do For RCCA Patients?

RCCA’s certified hand therapist Kelli Jacobs, OTR/L CHT provides specialized, skilled care to individuals with simple to complex upper extremity conditions or injuries.

Kelli delivers hands-on care that is critical to efficient and successful outcomes, allowing patients to return to the highest level of function.