Splints/Hand Therapy

For medical emergencies call 911.

Central Illinois offices: Peoria, Morton, Washington, Pekin, Bartonville, Metamora & Chillicothe

Our hands are too important to be left to chance. Experience and training count.

Hand therapy is often started as soon as possible after surgery or an injury

The earlier treatment begins, the less likelihood of excessive scarring, stiffness in nearby joints or nerve irritation. The therapist begins with a thorough evaluation of the affected extremity. This includes a history, a physical examination, strength testing, range of motion measures and testing for sensitivity.

IPMR Hand Therapists employ several techniques

• Ultrasound is a form of deep heat used to treat a variety of soft tissue problems. It improves blood flow, speeds healing and reduces pain.
• Iontophoresis uses a direct low-voltage current to transfer topical medication into a specific area of tissue.
• Paraffin wax helps conduct heat. This warmth helps loosen the hands and allow stretching and range of motion exercises. It also helps reduce pain (like the hot water bottles we used to take to bed).
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is used to reduce pain. Some injuries can cause peripheral nerve damage, particularly crush-type injuries, for which TENS units may be prescribed.
• Scar management is necessary in some cases. Once the wound is healed, the use of topical lotions and wrapping may be used. Edema (swelling) prevention and management is another tool involving massage, elevation and wrapping of the affected fingers, hand or arm.
• Desensitization is a process to reduce hypersensitivity. New scars and certain kinds of injuries can cause extreme sensitivity as healing occurs. Desensitization starts by touching or rubbing the area with very minimal stimuli, then using increasingly more textured items (for example, starting with a cotton ball and working up to corduroy). IPMR therapists also employ Fluidotherapy (ground corncobs circulating in warm air).
• Splinting using various materials and techniques to immobilize parts of the body to prevent further injury.
• Exercise focusing on regaining as much flexibility and strength as possible.
  

Who can benefit from this program?

Individuals who have had an injury to the hand, wrist or arm, as well as those suffering from various medical conditions, including

• Arthritis
• Amputation
• Arthroplastic surgery
• Carpal tunnel syndrome and/or surgery
• Cubital tunnel syndrome
  
• Complex regional pain syndrome
• DeQuervain's syndrome
• Epicondylitis
• Fractures
• Neuromas
• Nerve repair surgery
  
• Shoulder impingements
• Tendon repairs
• Trigger finger