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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  1. Why are people referred to hand therapy?
  2. What should I expect with hand therapy?
  3. How long will I need hand therapy?
  4. Who will see me?
  5. Who pays for it?
  6. Do I need a referral?
Why are people referred to hand therapy?
You and others may be referred to hand therapy because of a hand/arm movement dysfunction associated with pain.  Your difficulty with your arm or hand will very likely result in limitations with your daily activities (e.g. difficulty with activities involving the hand, an inability to write, trouble with lifting, computer work, etc.).  Hand therapists treat these movement dysfunctions and their associated pains and restore your body's ability to move in a normal manner.
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What should I expect with hand therapy?

STEP 1: EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT
The Key to successful rehabilitation and recovery is a complete evaluation and assessment. The hand therapist's evaluation will include the following:

  • Assessment of which muscles are lacking strength.
  • Testing of joint biomechanics for dysfunction.
  • Breakdown of your injury or symptoms step by step.
STEP 2: HANDS-ON THERAPY
A Hand Therapist's greatest asset is their hands.

A Hand Therapist can mobilize dysfunctional tissue and joints. This will assist you in a speedier, more complete recovery.
Through the use of hands-on techniques, the hand therapist is able to provide pressure and resistance when and where it is needed most. This technique is used throughout the movement for functional strengthening and optimal muscle control.


STEP 3: MUSCLE RE-EDUCATION
Once the areas that require the most help have been identified, the therapist will design a personalized comprehensive exercise regime.

The goal of the program is to re-educate and restore the muscles involved.
The exercise program will be specific to the muscles which support and protect your injury or dysfunction.


STEP 4: MAINTENANCE AND PREVENTION
The key to a complete and successful restoration of function, is learning how to prevent an injury or dysfunction from reoccurring.

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How long will I need hand therapy?

This is not an easy question to answer.  You may need one visit or you may need several months of treatment depending upon your condition.  Your hand therapist and your doctor will help you decide how long you will be treated.

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Who will see me?

At Tech Coast Rehab you will be evaluated by Barbara Gaita, OTR/L, MOT. She will also treat you during subsequent visits.

Unlike some clinics where you see someone different each visit, we feel it is very important to develop a one-on-one relationships with you to maintain continuity of care.

Since Barbara is the one that knows your problems best, she is the one that will be working closely with you to speed your recovery.

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Who Pays for the treatment?

In most cases, health insurance will cover your treatment.  Click on our insurance link above for a summary of insurances we accept and make sure you talk to us so we can help clarify your insurance coverage.

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Do I need a referral?

In California, you do need a referral to be evaluated by a hand therapist. If you don't have a doctor, call us.  We work with some of the best in town.

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