Hand and Occupational Therapy

Washington Outpatient Rehabilitation Center has two occupational therapists that are certified hand therapists and work closely with hand and orthopedic specialists to treat variety of conditions and diagnoses. Common conditions treated include:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is classified as a repetitive stress disorder, often resulting in pain, numbness and/or weakness of the hand. These symptoms are a result of pressure on the Median nerve in the wrist and can often be treated effectively with early diagnosis and treatment to reduce the pressure on the nerve.
• Basal Joint Arthritis: The joint at the base of the thumb is unique in that it is both very stable, but at the same time offers the significant movement of opposition which allows for greater functional use of our hands. Over time, the basal joint can wear down from overuse, leading to inflammation and pain which can affect how you use your thumb. Although osteoarthritis cannot be cured, proper diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of it worsening and may also lessen pain and inflammation allowing for greater functional use of the hand.
• Lateral Epicondylitis: Often referred to as “tennis elbow,” Lateral Epicondylitis is a common injury resulting from repetitive stress on the tendons of the outer elbow. Common risk factors include repetitive use of the hands for typing, use of power tools, repetitive grasping or pinching or impact to the outside of the elbow. Early diagnosis and therapy are often a successful treatment for lateral epicondylitis.
• Medial Epicondylitis: often referred to as “golfer’s elbow,” Medial Epicondylitis is a common injury resulting from repetitive stress on the tendons of the inner elbow. Common risk factors include repetitive use of the hands for grasping or pinching, heavy lifting, prolonged resting of the elbow on hard surfaces or impact to the inside of the elbow. Early diagnosis and therapy are often a successful treatment for medial epicondylitis.