HAND THERAPY FOR ARTHRITIS RELIEF
A hand therapist typically uses manual techniques to manipulate the affected arthritic area, in order to release tension, swelling, and pain. Through the use of massage and hands-on treatments, patients can find significant improvement - sometimes after just one session! In some cases, additional techniques, such as ice and heat therapies, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation may also be used as part of your treatment plan, in order to manage your pain and keep symptoms at bay. Perhaps one of the biggest roles of a hand therapist, however, is prescribing targeted stretches and exercises. These will be dependent upon the type and severity of your arthritis, and will focus on improving the range of motion, strength, and overall function of your affected upper extremities, so you can safely and comfortably perform your daily activities once again. A large part of hand therapy is helping patients regain their independence in day-to-day tasks and improving their quality of life. On Your Own: Your therapist will provide you with the necessary stretches and exercises needed to keep up with the progress you made during your sessions. It is important to make sure you complete these stretches and exercises on your own, so your arthritis doesn’t worsen. For upper extremity arthritis, there is a quick exercise you can do every day to instantly relieve your pain. This technique assists the natural flow of lymphatic fluid out of your hands and arms: 1. Bring your affected arm out to the side slightly. Open and close your hand, feeling for any stiffness or discomfort in the finger or wrist joints. 2. With your other hand, gently place your open palm on your rib cage, high up into the underarm area.
3. Gently press into the skin and move your hand in clockwise circles, moving the skin on the rib cage underneath. You should feel no discomfort while you do this. If you do, then you are pressing too hard. 4. Perform this motion for 2-3 minutes. 5. Test your hand again by opening and closing it. It should feel lighter and with less discomfort. 6. Repeat this procedure multiple times a day for best results. Contact ReQuest Physical Therapy! At ReQuest Physical Therapy, we are equipped in providing specialized treatments and therapies for any pain or discomfort your arthritis may be causing you. To learn more about how our physical and occupational services can benefit you, and specifically how hand therapy can relieve your upper extremity arthritis, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our team will work closely with you to determine which course of treatment will be best for your specific needs. Get back to living your life comfortably by calling us today!
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LIGHT & EASY SOUTHERN BROCCOLI SALAD TASTE HOW DELICIOUS WEIGHT LOSS CAN BE
INGREDIENTS • 3 tbsp. balsamic vinegar or to taste • ½ C chopped avocado and/or organic
in bite-sized pieces • 1 C cherry tomatoes, quartered • ½ C purple onion, minced • ½ C cabbage, diced • 1 tbsp. raw sunflower and/or pumpkin seeds
nonfat plain Greek yogurt • Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp. fresh oregano or thyme, minced • 5 C broccoli florets and stems chopped
DIRECTIONS In a small bowl, whisk together the first 4 ingredients; set aside. In a medium bowl, combine vegetables and seeds. Pour in the balsamic avocado dressing mixture and toss well. Refrigerate for 25 - 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend. This is one of the many complementary recipes shared in our healthy lifestyle program, Physicians’ Choice for Weight Loss.
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