A hand therapist is an occupational or physical therapist who, through advanced study, specializes in rehabilitating patients with conditions affecting the hands and upper extremity.

A hand therapist works with patients who may have been affected by an accident or trauma leaving them with wounds, scars, burns, injured tendons or nerves, fractures, or even amputation of the finger, hand, or arm.

A hand therapist also treats patients who are disabled from the affects of cumulative trauma disorders - such as tennis elbow or carpal tunnel syndrome. Many patients seeking the care of a hand therapist also suffer from such chronic problems as arthritis or a neurological condition.

A hand therapist works with the physician and patient - in any situation - to provide a continuum of care. This often starts within days of the injury or surgery right through to the patient's return to work and/or a productive lifestyle.

A qualified hand therapist can evaluate and identify any problem relative to the upper extremities. The hand therapist can effectively treat and rehabilitate the patient through postoperative rehabilitation, preventative, non-operative, or conservative treatment, or industry consultation.

Locations

• Shands Rehab Center Hand Therapy at UF Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Institute (SW Gainesville)
• Shands Rehab Center at Magnolia Parke (NW Gainesville)
• Shands Rehab Center at Shands Medical Plaza (SW Gainesville)

More Information

For more information or to make an appointment, call Shands Rehab Center Hand Therapy at UF Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Institute at 352.265.7005.