Therapy Programs: Joint Rehab | Hand & Upper Extremity Rehab
Harvard Rehab Group Hand and Upper Extremity Rehabilitation utilizes various treatment techniques, including modalities for pain relief and edema reduction and splinting for positioning or correction and prevention of deformities. Especially important is the "hands on" approach to therapy to increase motion, strength, and function of the upper extremity. Specific types of treatment may include joint mobilization, range-of-motion techniques, strengthening exercises, and job simulation activities on the BTE Work Simulator. The therapist may also recommend specific modifications of the home or work environment to prevent repeated injuries to the upper extremity, with emphasis on patient education in regards to preventive techniques, proper posture, and basic ergonomic principles.

Hand and Upper Extremity therapy must be prescribed by a physician. A written prescription for occupational therapy specifying the frequency and duration of treatment must accompany the patient on the first visit to Harvard Rehab Group Hand and Upper Extremity therapy.

Diagnoses

• Nerve entrapment (including carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel, pronator tunnel)
• Fractures
• Dislocations Tendon repairs
• Cumulative trauma disorders/de Quervain's/Repetitive motion disorders
• Arthritis
• Amputation/Replantation (Desensitization)
• Burns
• Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Customized Splints

• Protective splints that provide rest or promote healing.
• Adaptive splints to improve functions after nerve damage, deformity,
  amputation, or arthritis.
• Dynamic splints to increase motion of stiff joints.
• Splints for early controlled motion.

Exercise Plus

• Specific, goal-oriented exercises to restore motion, strength,
  and thus function to the upper extremity.
• The latest technology for strengthening specific muscle
  groups to help restore function.
• Comprehensive home programs/patient education in both English and Spanish.
• Advanced conditioning and work stimulation to expedite and facilitate return to work.
• Edema control for swollen fingers and upper extremity joints.
• Coordination exercises to allow manipulation of small and large objects.
• Sensory re-education to treat hypersensitive or desensitized
  nerves that interfere with function.
• Scar control that may interfere with movement or function.
• Wound care and debridement.
• Pain control to increase functional ability.

Functional Training

• Instruction in adaptive living techniques, joint protection, energy conservation, work simplification, motor coordination, and ergonomics.