Celebrating Hand Therapy Week with Our Amazing Hand 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.

Who Are Our 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 working with patients with a variety of orthopaedic injuries and conditions, including those related to the hand, wrist, and elbow. Hannah is passionate about treating patients as a whole person and helping them return to their desired daily activities. In addition to working at Arthritis & Sports Physical Therapy, Hannah enjoys exercising, riding horses, and spending time with her family and friends.

Howard (Howie) Huynh, Occupational Therapist (OTD), joined Arthritis and Sports in 2023. He was a personal trainer and exercise physiologist for five years before receiving his Doctorate of Occupational Therapy degree from Emory and Henry College in Marion, VA in 2023. Howie is an occupational therapist specializing in hand therapy driven by his profound commitment to improving his patients’ daily lives and functional independence. He strives to empower clients to overcome their challenges, fostering a path to enhanced well-being and meaningful engagement in their occupations and activities. Aside from work, Howie enjoys reading, powerlifting, playing board games, snowboarding, and riding his Onewheel. In addition, he enjoys tending to his plants and patiently waiting for his monsteras to unfurl new leaves.

Understanding the Importance of Hand Therapy

Hand therapy is a specialized area that incorporates various techniques to improve hand function, strength, and coordination. Therapists use a mix of exercises, modalities, and splinting to help patients recover from injuries like fractures or tendon repairs and manage conditions such as arthritis. Research shows that patients who undergo regular hand therapy see a 50% improvement in hand function within the first six weeks of treatment.

The role of a hand therapist extends beyond injury treatment; they also educate patients on preventing future issues. This might involve ergonomic advice, home exercises, and guidance on modifying activities to protect the hands. For instance, a simple adjustment in typing posture can reduce repetitive strain injuries by an estimated 40%.

The Custom Hand Splints That Make a Difference

A standout aspect of therapy from Hannah and Howie is the creation of custom hand splints. These bespoke devices immobilize or support specific areas of the hand, promoting optimal healing while still encouraging movement when safe to do so.

Each splint is crafted from durable, lightweight materials for maximum comfort and compliance. This tailored approach guarantees that each splint fits the unique shape of the patient's hand, vital for both post-operative recovery and long-term management. For instance, a personalized splint for a carpal tunnel release may significantly reduce 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 go beyond the clinic. They actively engage in community events, emphasizing the importance of hand health and the effectiveness of specialized therapy. By hosting workshops and providing informational resources, they raise awareness about hand-related conditions and the benefits of timely intervention.

---

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 up-to-date 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