What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
1. A referral letter (if you have one)
2. Any imaging, tests or scans you may have relating to the injury, for example: x-rays, CT, MRI, EMG
3. Your claim number if you are making a claim through WorkCover or Third Party insurance
4. Any questions you may have for your therapists relating to your injury/condition.
How long are consultations and how often will I need to come for therapy?
Your initial consultations will generally last between 45-60 minutes to allow your therapist to assess your injury or condition, fabricate any splints required, and provide a treatment programme. Most follow up consultations are 30 minutes. The frequency of your appointments will depend on a number of things such as whether you have a wound or splint hat needs reviewing, the complexity of your injury or surgery, and how well you are progressing with your rehabilitation.
Does it matter how long I wait to see you after my injury or surgery?
Absolutely – successful outcomes are facilitated by prompt management as we can immediately provide advice on appropriate use of your hand, precautions and protecting your injury or surgery with splinting or casting. We work closely with our referring surgeons and doctors to facilitate early movement which is a determining factor in overall success of treatment. The best time to come after surgery is commonly between day three and day seven following your operation so you can avoid complications from swelling, stiffness and scarring. Sporting and repetitive use injuries are also managed more effectively and efficiently with early contact with a hand therapist.
What is a Hand Therapist?
Hand Therapists are occupational therapists or physiotherapists who through continuing education, clinical experience and independent study have become proficient in the treatment of the hand and upper limb. In Australia Hand Therapists are recognised through membership of the Australian Hand Therapy Association. At InHand Occupational Therapy our practice is completely devoted to upper limb injuries, so all of our staff are supervised by full members of the Australian Hand Therapy Association and undergo additional training and professional development in hand and upper limb injuries throughout the year to ensure that they have the most up to date knowledge on how to assist with your injury.
Which therapist should I see?
As the clinic owners and principal therapists, Michael and Helen’s names are often given to patients, however our clinic prides itself on the clinical expertise and experience of our staff and we are confident you will be happy with the treatment received when seen by any of our therapists. Due to varying clinical experiences and personal interest all of our staff also have specific areas of interest so if you have a particular injury or condition or specific requirements for return to work or sport then then please inform our receptionist as they will try and appoint the most appropriate therapist for you.
Can you help me if I don’t know why my wrist is sore?
Hand therapists are trained to asses and treat a variety of wrist conditions, such as tendonitis, ligament injuries, instability and weakness. Many people come to use with painful wrists, and it is one of the things we love to assess and treat. Rehabilitation often involves techniques to relive your pain such as splinting or braces and we use custom graded rehabilitation programmes to regain movement and strength and retrain the ligaments and muscles in your wrist to prevent future problems. We are also able to provide advice on further diagnostic imaging and referral for specialist or surgical opinion if required.
Do you treat elite athletes and sports people?
Hand, wrist and elbow injuries are common in sport of all levels. We treat all ages and levels of ability from school students and amateurs through to professional sports people. We pride ourselves on being able to manage all of our patients according to their specific sporting requirements to bring them back to their previous level of competition as soon as possible. Our therapy team are service providers for many local and state sporting teams and enjoy the unique challenges of facilitating early yet safe return to sport.
Is my treatment cost covered by private health insurance?
If you have the appropriate “extras” cover you may be able to claim reimbursement for your consultation and any custom made splints, casts or aids. Different Health Funds cover different amounts for each treatment. If you are unsure, please contact your private health insurer to clarify your level of cover for occupational therapy (most hand therapy services) and physiotherapy.
