We are committed to improving our customers’ lives with innovative solutions. Today, we are delighted to share an informative interview with Sue Johnson, an experienced occupational therapist who specialises in hand therapy.
Sue sheds light on the role of a hand therapist, the client evaluation process, therapeutic interventions, and the key products she recommends.
Q: Sue, can you start by describing what a hand therapist is?
Sue: Certainly! A hand therapist is an occupational therapist or physical therapist who focuses on rehabilitating the upper limbs, which includes the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. Our main aim is to assist clients in regaining full function and use of their upper extremities following an injury, surgery, or due to chronic conditions. We work to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and restore strength and coordination.
Q: How do you assess a new client?
Sue: The assessment process is comprehensive and starts with taking a detailed history to understand the nature of their injury or condition, their daily activities, and their recovery goals.
This is followed by a physical exam where we evaluate range of motion, strength, swelling, pain levels, and overall functionality of the affected area. We might use specific diagnostic tests to identify conditions like carpal tunnel or tendon injuries. This thorough evaluation helps us create a very personalised treatment plan.
Q: What treatment options do you use to aid recovery?
Sue: Treatment plans are tailored to each client’s needs but typically include a combination of exercises, manual therapy, and education.
Exercises are designed to improve their flexibility, strength, and coordination. Manual therapy might involve techniques like massage and joint mobility to reduce pain and swelling. Education is also a key component’ we teach clients about their condition, and how best to perform their daily activities with adding extra stress.
We also recommend adaptive equipment to facilitate daily tasks.
Q: Could you tell us about some of these adaptive products you recommend?
Sue: Yep. The right adaptive tools can make a significant difference in a client’s recovery and their daily life. Here’s some of my top products:
- Oval-8 Finger Splints – These are great for stabilising and aligning fingers affected by arthritis, tendon injuries, or mallet finger. They help protect and support the fingers during the healing process.
- Theraputty – This is a versatile product, that is great for hand exercise, and it comes with different resistance levels. Great for helping to strengthen hand muscles and improving your grip.
- TheraBand Hand Exercisers – These flexible hand exercise tools come in varied resistance levels (similar to the putty), they help to strengthen grip and improve dexterity and range of motion.
- Button Hook & Zipper Pulls – This is genius, buttons and zips can be frustrating when you have limited hand strength or mobility. This handy tool helps buttoning and zipping easily.
- Ergonomic Pens – Pens like this are designed to reduce the strain on the hand. It makes writing more comfortable. This means that writing the shopping list or little notes is easier.
- Uccello Kettle – Ever since I met a client who had already bought himself this Kettle, I contact your team and they kindly offered a demo and gifted us kettle for our team to help with assessments. It has become one of my top recommended products ever since. Its tilt-to-pour action is revolutionary. There is no lifting or straining for a cuppa and plus, it looks great. I even bought one for myself.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about your work as a hand therapist?
Sue: The most rewarding aspect is seeing my clients regain their hand function and confidence. It’s incredibly fulfilling to watch someone progress from struggling with basic tasks to achieving their goals and improving their quality of life. Each small victory is a step towards their independence, and being part of that journey is truly special.
We hope this interview has provided valuable insights into hand therapy and the crucial role of occupational therapists. If you or someone you know could benefit from these products, please visit our website to learn more about the Uccello Kettle (and other products within our range).
Leave a Comment