Each year, thousands of people require medical attention for injuries or chronic problems that impede the proper function of their hands and upper extremities.

The outpatient Occupational Therapy program at Ellenville Regional Hospital offers a full range of services designed to hasten your return to work and improve your quality of daily life, including:

• Pain management
• Wound care – Exercise programs
• Splints to prevent/correct injuries
• Fitting/training in use of equipment (such as artificial limbs)
• Pain/swelling management and wound or scar care

We can help you address upper extremity issues due to common problems such as:

• Accidents or trauma causing wounds, scars, burns, tendon/nerve injuries, fractures, amputation, sprains
• Cumulative trauma disorders resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis and tennis elbow
• Neurological conditions, arthritis and other chronic problems
• Sports injuries
• Temporary or permanent paralysis caused by stroke
• Congenital or acquired deformities
• Post-operative and non-operative rehabilitation

Poor hand and upper extremity function can cause difficulties in movement, strength and coordination, as well as pain, numbness, swelling and lack of endurance. Whether your problems occur as a result of sudden injury or have developed over time, you may suffer social, financial and emotional effects that reduce your quality of life and impact your ability to function properly. We work with people of all ages and caregivers and family members are welcome to attend sessions since they often play a vital role in helping you practice skills at home.

Our team of qualified therapists works closely with your surgeon, physician or pediatrician to evaluate your needs.

We’ll begin with a one-on-one meeting to discuss the progression of your problems and the symptoms you are experiencing. During a hands-on examination of the affected areas and direct observation, we’ll assess your movements while performing daily tasks.

Since the root causes of upper extremity dysfunction vary widely – from a particular disease or condition or the normal aging process to a traumatic injury or accident – diagnostic tests may be conducted based upon your individual issues. These tests may include blood work, x-rays or MRIs.

The ERH continuum of care is designed to prevent further dysfunction, restore your ability to perform daily activities and help you gain more independence.

We’ll guide you through techniques to improve your range of motion, sensation, dexterity and strength, and teach you how to protect your joints and conserve energy while on the job or at home. We can also show you one-handed techniques for getting dressed and cutting food, using a computer, and other daily tasks, or make recommendations for special equipment or devices to help you function more effectively and safely. If you use adaptive or assistive devices and equipment, such as prosthetics or orthotic fabrications, we can make sure they’re fitted properly and help you learn to use them more efficiently.

Our treatment services include:

• Activity and exercise programs
• Energy conservation and use of assistive/adaptive devices
• Healthy work habits and ergonomic modifications
• Custom orthotic fabrication and fitting
• Pain/swelling management and wound or scar care
• Evaluation of in-home safety with recommended adaptations

Yes, we encourage referrals from medical professionals, caregivers, school officials and others.

If you need additional medical services (such as a prescription for medications or assistive/adaptive devices or equipment), we will work with your provider or refer you to our staff professionals.

Medicare and most major health insurers will pay for part of your occupational therapy services. If you cannot afford to pay, you may be eligible for our financial assistance program. Most insurances are accepted.

Our program staff is licensed and certified by New York State.

The American Society of Hand Therapists and the American Occupational Therapy Association websites offer additional information.

To find out more about the ERH Occupational Therapy program or to make an appointment, please call (845) 210-3035.