Occupational and Hand Therapy

Occupational therapy (OT) focuses on the things you need and want to do every day: dressing, cooking, typing, driving, working and caring for your family. While physical therapy often focuses on the back, legs and walking, occupational therapy focuses on hand and arm function and on making daily tasks easier and safer.

Certified hand therapists are occupational or physical therapists with advanced training in the hand, wrist and elbow.

• Carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome and other nerve compression in the arm
• Recovery after carpal tunnel release or cubital tunnel release
• Hand weakness or clumsiness from cervical myelopathy or a pinched nerve in the neck
• Radial nerve palsy, brachial plexus injuries and other nerve injuries
• Recovery after spinal cord injury, brain injury or brain surgery
• Learning safe ways to dress, bathe and move after spine surgery

• Custom splints, such as night splints for carpal or cubital tunnel
• Nerve gliding and tendon exercises to keep nerves moving freely
• Strength, grip and fine-motor training for buttons, writing and small objects
• Scar care and swelling control after hand or arm surgery
• Ergonomic advice for desks, keyboards, tools and phones
• Adaptive equipment, such as reachers and sock aids, to protect your spine after surgery
• Sensory retraining after a nerve injury

Hand therapy for nerve compression often involves a few visits plus a home program over several weeks. Recovery after a nerve injury or spinal cord injury can take months, because nerves heal slowly. Your therapist will set goals with you and track your progress.

What is the difference between physical and occupational therapy?

Physical therapy focuses on movement, strength, walking and the spine. Occupational therapy focuses on hand and arm function and the everyday tasks of life, such as dressing, cooking and working.

Can hand therapy help carpal tunnel without surgery?

For mild to moderate carpal tunnel, night splints, nerve glides and changes to activities often help. If numbness or weakness continues, carpal tunnel release can often correct the problem.

Do I need occupational therapy after neck surgery?

Some patients do, especially those with hand weakness or clumsiness from spinal cord compression. Dr. Grunch will let you know if it would help you.

If you have neck pain, back pain or nerve pain and want to know which treatments make sense for you, call 470-293-9800 or contact us to schedule a visit with Dr. Grunch or one of her physician assistants. You can also ask general questions any time through our “Ask Us Anything” chat.

Related: All non-surgical treatment options · Physical therapy · Pinched nerves guide

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace individualized care from a licensed physician. Please talk to your provider about your symptoms and treatment options.