Therapist Considerations in Flexor Tendon Management
Presented by Kristin Valdes
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Therapists are tasked with making a multitude of decisions during the rehabilitation of patients post flexor tendon repair. They must choose appropriate orthotic devices, create exercise programs, and prescribe home programs to increase therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, they must understand techniques that can help patients be more successful in their therapeutic outcomes. In this course, practitioners will learn how to advance exercise regimes based on patient presentation if adhesions develop. They will also learn how to differentiate between two different orthoses based on patient characteristics. Finally, they will be made aware of the latest evidence to enhance patient compliance with home exercise programs.
Meet your instructor
Kristin Valdes
Kristin Valdes was previously the owner of Hand Works Therapy in Sarasota, Florida, and was in private practice for more than 30 years. Currently, she is a full professor at Touro University in Henderson, Nevada. Her clinical expertise includes treatment of the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder; splinting; and arthritis. Dr.…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Orthoses Following Flexor Tendon Repair
This chapter describes the orthoses that can be fabricated after a flexor tendon repair. Therapist practice patterns and specific client factors can help determine the best choice. Appropriate positioning of the involved joints will be presented, along with rationales for the positioning.
2. Client Factors and Management of Edema and Limited Flexion and Extension of the Digits
Therapists can use a variety of orthotic devices and prescribe exercises to increase digit motion following flexor tendon repair. Patients can develop either limited flexion or extension, and there are specific techniques to address these limitations. Blocking devices and exercises can improve tendon excursion if limited motion occurs during the rehabilitation process.
3. Home Exercise Program and Adherence
Therapists can use technology to help patients perform their home exercise programs efficiently and quickly. There are specific client factors that can determine therapy adherence, and therapists should understand those factors. It is important to learn what areas therapists should focus on to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
