Hand Occupational Therapy

Hand therapists (also referred to as occupational therapists) specialize in conditions affecting hands and upper extremities, including the arm, wrist, elbow, shoulder, and finger joints.

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Ivy Rehab / Therapy Services / Occupational Therapy / Hand Therapy

What is Hand Therapy Treatment?

Hand therapists (also known as occupational therapists) specialize in conditions affecting the hands and upper extremities. Many pursue certification and advanced clinical training to develop specialist skills in hand therapy.

Becoming a hand therapist involves advanced training to treat patients through hand therapy for conditions such as post-surgical rehabilitation, non-surgical hand injuries, conservative care, preventive strategies, and work-related consultations—with input from your physician or surgeon when needed.

Hand therapy often continues even after a patient returns to work or daily activities to further improve function and range of motion.

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What Are Different Types of Hand Therapy Procedures?

Range of motion/stretching
Strengthening
Therapeutic exercises
Wound / scar management
Desensitization techniques
Edema control
Soft tissue mobilization / massage
Functional activities
Work simulation
Work place modifications
Modalities (including ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat/ice, iontophoresis)
Custom splinting
Custom casting
Home program instruction

How We Approach Hand Therapy

Licensed hand therapists at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy work with you to prevent injuries, improve function after surgery or injury, and help you get back to feeling like yourself again. We treat a variety of conditions—from arthritis and osteoarthritis to chronic and degenerative conditions, trauma, and neurologic recovery after stroke.

Our hand therapists provide one-on-one care to design a custom rehabilitation plan tailored to your specific injury or condition.

Hand pain treatment through occupational therapy can result in:

Faster recovery times
Custom splint fabrication
Decreased medical costs
Better functional outcomes

Request your appointment today at an Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy location near you to learn more about hand therapy.

FAQs

Can hand therapy help arthritis, osteoarthritis, or other chronic degenerative conditions?

Yes. Hand therapy can benefit people with arthritis, osteoarthritis, and chronic degenerative changes by improving motion, supporting joint function, and helping restore function.

Do I need a physician or surgeon referral for hand therapy?

In many cases, you can schedule an appointment directly. However, a physician or surgeon may recommend hand therapy based on your diagnosis, surgical needs, or a history of chronic disorders.

Is hand therapy available for pediatric cases or simple fingertip injuries?

Yes. Hand therapy can support pediatric care, including simple fingertip injuries, and can also assist with recovery after neurologic events like stroke when upper extremity function is affected.

What conditions do hand therapy specialists treat in the hand and upper extremity?

A hand therapy specialist may treat the arm, wrist, elbow, shoulder, and finger joint issues, ranging from trauma and deformity to orthopedic and neurologic conditions.

What should I expect at my first visit (PT assessment and diagnosis)?

Your first visit typically includes a PT assessment, a review of symptoms and history, and clinical testing to support diagnosis. Your therapist will recommend a plan that may include therapeutic exercises and orthotic fabrication when appropriate.

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I'm so incredibly thankful for Nikki and being able to apply for the UHCF grant. Without the grant, it would probably be impossible to provide my son with regular speech therapy, which he needs. Nikki has been very responsive, helpful, and supportive in helping me through all the ins and outs of the grant. My family and I are so grateful for ABC and all the ways that they have supported my son with special needs!

Response from the owner:We are so happy to help! Thank you for the kind words and trusting us in the care of your child!

After my shoulder surgery, when I had to pick a place to go for my PT, I wasn’t sure where to go. I really was only aware of the chain places, like ATI and Athletico. But I couldn’t drive for about a month so I chose PTSIR in Orland Park because I thought, if for some reason my wife was not available to drive me, it’s only about a 2 mile walk. I could do that. Sometimes you’re smart and sometimes you’re just lucky. Here I was lucky. This place, and these people, are outstanding. Personable, professional, & proficient in the science/art of PT. People had told me: “keep up with your therapy. You’re gonna hate it but you gotta keep going.” I got news for you. I didn’t hate it. I actually enjoyed it. Why? 1. It’s working. I have about 75% mobility & strength back in my shoulder. 2. These people, Melanie & Linda, they are so engaged in your situation and your progress and so friendly that we actually have conversations and laugh. It’s hard sometimes to show your vulnerabilities (even tho it’s a result of surgery) to strangers. They made it easy. I went to another place about 18 months ago, before surgery was decided. And they were good…friendly, seemed competent. But not nearly as engaged or invested in how I was progressing. Again, they were fine. But on a scale of 1 to Mel, they were like a 2. So thank you Linda for being so friendly and open and helpful. And thank you Mel. You have been simply wonderful.

You can tell from the moment you walk in this place it is not a typical in and out clinic. They care about the patient more than they do about making an extra buck which is rare in the physical therapy realm. I saw them firsthand go out of their way for myself and many other patients while I did my PT here for 5 months. Would highly recommend for any type of patients. I myself am a younger athlete recovering from orthopedic surgery but I saw a plethora of age ranges they served while I was there. Thank you Ivy Kokomo!

Our experience has been great. We have been attending for the past 1 1/2 yrs and the therapists Jenna(SLP) and Laurie(OT) are phenomenal. Nichole( front desk) is super helpful as well! Really, everyone at the Western Hills location are great! My son, who is 3 1/2yrs. old ( diagnosed with Autism) has made so much progress. Their professionalism, patience, understanding and advice/ suggestions have really made a difference in the positive direction!

Ivy Rehab in New Hyde Park is a clean and friendly place. The front staff is welcoming and helpful. The therapists are nice and know how to treat their patients. My therapist Katie is amazing, she was able to guide my recovery from surgery in record time. Jen and Adrien were super friendly and offered encouraging support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, New Hyde Park

I highly recommend Noah Piciullo and the team at Ivy Rehab in New Hyde Park for anyone in need of physical therapy. The entire staff is very welcoming and always helpful. I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional care I received from Noah after my hip replacement. From the very first session, I knew I was in the hands of a true professional who genuinely cares about their patients’ well being. He listened attentively to my concerns, provided clear guidance, and tailored a rehabilitation plan that was perfectly suited to my needs. I am having my other hip replaced in the near future and will be going back to Ivy Rehab and Noah!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, we appreciate you! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, New Hyde Park

Maxium Performance Physical Therapy has helped the issue with my elbow within the first 4 visits. This Therapy place is amazing. The owners James and Paige along with their staff are amazing. Their place is so clean and spacious. Thank you all for taking great care of my ailments

Response from the owner:Hi Maria ! We are happy that your elbow is feeling better and that you are happy with the service we have provided thus far ! 🙂

i literally tell everyone i love coming to physical therapy. i came here after my first hip labrum repair surgery and i came back after getting the same surgery on my other hip. i see Megan she’s super knowledgeable and fun to work with. everyone who works here is so nice and i love the community feel of the space. coming here whenever i need the care !

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your positive feedback, it means the world to us! – The team at Park Sports Physical Therapy, Brooklyn

I highly recommend coming to Ivy rehab physical therapy, the whole team is amazing from getting my appointments scheduled to the physical therapists. I had the pleasure of seeing Logan, I can honestly say he has helped me with identifying issues with my neck and equipped me with the tools and exercises that I need to sustain myself going forward! Such a laid back atmosphere and I actually enjoyed coming to physical therapy! Thanks guys!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Indian Trail

i love park sports! my partner has been going here for many months after two intensive surgeries. they go here twice a month and recovery has been going so well! they’re happy to go every week and progress has been steady. thank you to the PTs here for knowing your stuff and caring about patients recovering!

Response from the owner:Your kind words brighten our day – thank you for sharing! – The team at Park Sports Physical Therapy – Brooklyn – Williamsburg

I love love love Park Sports PhysicalTtherapy because I love love love Long! He is the best physical therapist ever. My knees were killing me, and I thought I was doomed to a life of pain. Within six weeks, Long helped me to feel like my old self again. He doesn’t just assign you exercises – he thinks carefully about your pain and constructs a routine that is ideal for you. He is not only effective, he is kind, funny, and great to be around, so it makes physical therapy much easier! .

Response from the owner:Your kind words brighten our day – thank you for sharing! – The team at Park Sports Physical Therapy – Brooklyn – Williamsburg

My son has been coming here for almost 2 years and he absolutely loves it!!! I love how everyone is so friendly and loves all the kids they work with. Gage has warmed up to everyone there front staff included. He gets excited to “play” since the staff likes to make learning fun!!! I wouldn’t take him to any other place!!!

It’s my first time doing PT and the providers there are all friendly and knowledgeable. The exercises I’ve been given are already starting to help my knee after only a couple days. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Your kind words brighten our day – thank you for sharing! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – King of Prussia

I met with a physical therapist yesterday his name is Joshua Zajac He was very professional about explaining what is needed to get my condition better his patience was extremely helpful I'm looking forward to working with him to back 💯

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, we appreciate you! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Norfolk – Granby

Very enthusiastic and dedicated group of therapist at the Montgomeryville location. Kaitlin and Sara are top notch and do a great job addressing your aches and pains!!!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, North Wales – Montgomeryville

Having been to multiple Physical Therapy Centers for both myself and my athlete daughters, Ivy is by far the most professional, yet fun atmosphere for therapy. The staff are personable and incredibly knowledgeable and creative. They will push their clients to ensure positive end results all while listening attentively to individual needs and fears. Physical Therapy is tough work but it was much more enjoyable in their environment. I would and do recommend them to any and all in need of PT. 5 stars +++!!! Special shout out to my Therapist, Katherine, who had to work double duty on me for my knee and elbow! I haven't felt this good in nearly 2 years! Thank you!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, we appreciate you! – The team at Ivy Rehab, Norfolk!

My children love going to therapy. They have been so amazing with my girls. I will always recommend ABC Pediatric Therapy in Milford. My girls have learned so much and I'm excited to continue to watch them grow.

Response from the owner:We're thrilled you had such a positive experience, thank you! – The team at ABC Pediatric Therapy – Milford

Connie Darrow is an excellent PT. She really took the time to listen and help me overcome severe pain that I was having. She got me back to full pain free functioning and now I have daily exercises that will keep me pain free. Highly recommend this office and Connie specifically.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your positive feedback, it means the world to us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Princeton

We are so grateful for our ST, Paige! My son is always excited to see her and has learned so much in his short time so far with her. He is always excited to go back. Front desk is always so nice when we come in for our early morning appointments. Highly recommend this office to those who may need it.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your positive feedback, it means the world to us! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids, Bensalem

Everyone at Excel was excellent. I worked primarily with Aaron who was a great PT to work with. I came in on crutches after my 3rd surgery for the same injury and Aaron helped tailor my recovery to my needs recovering from ACL and ankle surgery. I’m finishing my time at Excel feeling much stronger and ready to go back to dancing after 2.5 years!

Response from the owner:We're so thankful for your kind words and positive review! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – Westfield – East Broad St

I had a very successful outcome at PTW Montgomeryville thanks to their highly skilled team. They made it clear that if I worked with them I could achieve much greater mobility. The mobility results were realized and my pain is virtually gone as long as I follow the routine. No meds needed. This euphoric new life gave me the incentive to transition into their FITNESS PROGRAM!!!! I LIVE IT AND LOVE IT. This is the strongest I have been since the accident so many years ago. My sincere thanks to the team and especially Kaitlin, Matt, Stephanie and Laura. Consummate professionals!

Response from the owner:It’s great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at PTW, North Wales