Celebrate Hand Therapy Week with Our Expert Therapists!

As Hand Therapy Week begins today, it's the perfect time to highlight our outstanding hand therapists, Hannah Portell and Howie Huynh. Their commitment to helping individuals regain function and improve their quality of life through specialized hand therapy is truly inspiring.

Meet Our Experienced Hand Therapists

Hannah Portell, Occupational Therapist (OTD), joined Arthritis and Sports in 2023. She received her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy degree from Methodist University in Fayetteville, North Carolina, in 2022. Hannah specializes in treating patients with various orthopedic injuries and conditions, particularly those related to the hand, wrist, and elbow. She is dedicated to treating patients as whole individuals, helping them return to their desired daily activities. Outside of work, Hannah enjoys exercising, riding horses, and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Howard (Howie) Huynh, Occupational Therapist (OTD), also joined Arthritis and Sports in 2023. He has a background as a personal trainer and exercise physiologist for five years before earning his Doctorate of Occupational Therapy degree from Emory and Henry College in Marion, VA, in 2023. Howie specializes in hand therapy, driven by a profound commitment to improving his patients’ daily lives and functional independence. He strives to empower clients, helping them overcome their challenges and enhancing their engagement in activities that matter to them. In his free time, Howie enjoys reading, powerlifting, playing board games, snowboarding, and riding his Onewheel. He also has a passion for taking care of his plants and eagerly awaits the new leaves of his monsteras to unfurl.

The Importance of Hand Therapy

Hand therapy is a specialized field that employs various techniques to improve hand function, strength, and coordination. Therapists utilize a combination of exercises, modalities, and splinting to help patients recover from injuries such as fractures or tendon repairs. They also assist in managing conditions like arthritis. Studies show that patients undergoing regular hand therapy experience a 50% improvement in hand function within just six weeks of treatment.

The role of a hand therapist goes beyond treatment. They also educate patients on preventing future problems. This may include ergonomic advice, at-home exercises, and modifications to daily activities to protect hands from strain. For example, a small alteration in typing posture can reduce repetitive strain injuries by an estimated 40%.

Harnessing the Power of Custom Hand Splints

One exceptional aspect of the therapy provided by Hannah and Howie is the creation of custom hand splints. These bespoke devices immobilize or support specific areas of the hand, promoting healing while encouraging safe movement.

Each splint is made from durable and lightweight materials, ensuring maximum comfort and compliance. This personalized approach guarantees a proper fit for the unique shape of each patient's hand, which is vital for both post-operative recovery and long-term management. For instance, a tailored splint designed for carpal tunnel release can significantly cut recovery time by up to 25%.

Recognizing the Impact of Our Therapists

During Hand Therapy Week, it is crucial to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of therapists like Hannah and Howie. They exemplify compassionate care and are dedicated to empowering their patients throughout their recovery journeys.

Their outreach efforts extend beyond the clinic. They actively participate in community events to emphasize the importance of hand health and the effectiveness of specialized therapy. By hosting workshops and distributing informational resources, they raise awareness about hand-related conditions and the benefits of timely intervention.

Conclusion: A Pathway to Recovery

If you seek expert guidance and personalized therapy solutions, look no further. With Hannah and Howie at your side, you can trust that you’re on the right path to recovery and improved hand function. *We invite you to call us at 703.433.2500 to schedule an appointment or click here to request an appointment. To stay updated on the latest news and tips from us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and sign up for our monthly newsletter for even more information sent straight to your inbox.*