Ultrasound therapy has been used for decades by both PT and OT. It’s a skilled intervention that requires training, and when used right it can be beneficial for hand therapy. However in some circumstances, ultrasound is not effective and can be a poor use of time. In this article, I’ll discuss when US is beneficial, […]
Is ultrasound beneficial for Hand Therapy? Read More »
In hand therapy, the dynamic extension splint isn’t the most often used splint, but it’s one of the most challenging to fabricate. In this article, I’ll discuss everything you need to know about the dynamic extension splint. If you’re new to hand therapy or wanting to sharpen your skills, check out my book on splinting
Dynamic Extension Splinting – The Ultimate Guide Read More »
If there’s any model that’s a perfect representation for occupational therapy, it’s the Kawa river model. The Kawa river model isn’t just a model, it’s a narrative. It tells the story of our life. The model takes a culturally sensitive approach to help us understand who we are, our life challenges, goals, and what is
Rethinking the Kawa River Model and Ideas for Treatment Read More »
(Note: Post contributed by Ben Tanner, a Physician Assistant.) As an OT, perhaps your main role isn’t nutrition advice. But even a few simple tips, a couple key resources, and a little encouragement can go a LONG way in helping your patients improve their quality of life. In this article, I’ll go over some basic
How OT can educate patients to Improve or reverse Type 2 Diabetes Read More »
When you think about occupational therapy, conflict resolution usually isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. Normally, we think of meaningful activities and interventions that help people reach their goals. What about when life goals and objectives aren’t being met because of conflict in relationships at home, work, and organizations. Can occupational therapy be useful
An Occupational Therapy Approach to Conflict Resolution Read More »
According to a new study, patients who have undergone a posterior hip replacement may be able to ignore hip precautions. In March 2019, at the American Academy of orthopedic surgeons conference in Las Vegas, Dr. Peter Sculco reported that low-risk patients who have undergone posterior hip replacements no longer need to maintain hip precautions in
New study suggests patients can ignore standard hip precautions Read More »
Occupational therapy groups can be fun or stressful. The people we see in group therapy may be excited and engaged or find the activity meaningless and not want to participate. It’s usually the ones who don’t want to participate who are experiencing some kind of fear. They may be feeling fear of pain, anxiety, feelings
The best activities for OT groups and how to encourage participation Read More »
How do I reduce hand swelling, and when will it get better? These questions are asked by hand therapist on a daily basis. Most hand injuries cause swelling of some kind. This may include acute swelling after surgery or a recent injury. Swelling may also be chronic from a past injury. Sometimes swelling occurs for
How to reduce hand swelling [Hand Therapy basics] Read More »
Ulnar gutter splints are most commonly fabricated by hand therapists or surgeons. They have many uses, but are primarily used for boxer fractures (5th metacarpal fractures). The primary purpose of an Ulnar gutter splint is to keep the wrist and hand in a “safe position.” This should also allow the MP joints of the hand
Ulnar gutter splint uses and fabrication for hand therapy Read More »
