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What is Occupational Therapy and How Can it Help You?

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McFarland Clinic provides Occupational Therapy services for patients with pain and injuries of the elbow, wrist, and hand, including workplace injuries.

What is occupational therapy?

Occupational therapists at McFarland Physical Therapy specialize in the recovery of the arms and hands. They can also work with patients on fine motor coordination, or the use and control of small muscles in the hands and wrists. The goal of occupational therapy is to return patients to independent function in daily activities which "occupy" a patient's time.

What type of injuries are treated by an occupational therapist?

The occupational therapists at McFarland Clinic focus on rehabilitation from the shoulder to the fingertips. Many OTs are Certified Hand Therapists. They help patients restore function for work, school, recreation, and daily living. They are also skilled in making custom splints that assist in recovery or can promote functional use as needed.

Common Upper Extremity Injuries and Disorders

  • Arthritis
  • Nerve compression syndromes
  • Sports-related injuries
  • Repetitive work strains
  • Traumatic injuries
  • Various tendinopathies of the upper extremity

“Occupational Therapists also specialize in ergonomic awareness and functional analysis to decrease injury and re-injury in the workplace,” says Rachel Chariton, OTR/L, CHT of McFarland Clinic Physical Therapy.

When should I see an occupational therapist?

“When common daily activities start to become more difficult to complete due to some ailment or injury, you may want to be seen by an occupational therapist,” says Rachel. “Some symptoms you may be experiencing include pain, stiffness, tingling/numbness, weakness, or joints that may be loose or too flexible.”
 
An occupational therapist will provide education on the proper completion of activities to decrease strain. They can work with you to rehabilitate, strengthen, and retrain your muscles in order for you to return to your previous level of function or desired activity.
 
If you are experiencing elbow, wrist, or hand pain, the McFarland Occupational Therapists are here to help. In most cases, no referral is necessary to schedule an evaluation. Please check with your insurance company.

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