A Closer Look at Hand Therapy: What to Expect and Why It Makes a Difference at Orthopedic ONE

Injuries and conditions affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder can make even the simplest tasks feel challenging. When pain or loss of function disrupts daily life, our physicians and therapists at Orthopedic ONE work together to help determine the treatment approach that best fits your needs. Sometimes, that may mean starting with general therapy, while other situations may call for more specialized care. No matter the level of complexity, our surgeons and certified hand therapists collaborate closely, sharing insights, coordinating care, and creating a seamless experience focused on restoring function and improving quality of life.

At Orthopedic ONE, that collaborative approach is the foundation of our care. From the first evaluation through full recovery, our certified hand therapists and fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeons work in lockstep, setting the standard for upper extremity care in Central Ohio. In fact, we have more nationally ranked hand surgeons than any other practice in Ohio, according to a recent analysis by Newsweek.

The impact of this partnership is felt immediately. “When therapists and surgeons are able to constantly communicate in real time, patients benefit right away,” says Dr. Raymond Wurapa, fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity specialist at Orthopedic ONE. “Our collaboration means every step of care is coordinated, intentional, and tailored to what that patient needs most.”

What is Hand Therapy?

Hand therapy is a highly specialized area of rehabilitation that focuses on conditions affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, forearm, and shoulder. It aims to prevent dysfunction, restore function, and reverse or slow the progression of upper limb conditions. Thus, certified hand therapists (CHTs) must be licensed with an occupational therapy or physical therapy degree, as well as have three years and 4,000 hours of experience in upper extremity treatment. CHTs must also pass a rigorous certification exam and get recertified every five years.

“It’s not just general therapy applied to the hand,” Bridget Burke, Orthopedic ONE’s Director of Hand Therapy Services, explains. “CHTs undergo extensive training focused solely on the complexities of the upper extremity to ensure we can treat anything from a case of simple carpal tunnel to a full hand transplant.”

The Benefits of Hand Therapy

Hand therapy at Orthopedic ONE is designed to meet each patient where they are, both physically and functionally. After getting a referral from an Orthopedic ONE specialist, therapists can often begin treatment on the same day as the patient’s post-surgical assessment (if applicable), ensuring immediate support.

“We work closely with the surgeons to understand their techniques, expectations, and any post-operative precautions,” explains Burke. “From there, we educate patients and set achievable goals, so they can track their progress and feel empowered throughout recovery.”

Treatment methods are diverse and highly individualized. For instance, a musician may bring their instrument to therapy, while a construction worker may practice grip and lifting techniques needed for their job. The goal is always to restore practical and meaningful function with as little pain as possible.

Hand therapy at Orthopedic ONE also addresses the psychological impact of upper extremity injuries. Many patients face anxiety about returning to work, caring for family, or resuming daily activities while coping with visible injuries that include pins or casts. “Our relationship with the patient is as important as the therapy itself,” Burke notes. “We’re helping them regain function, but we’re also helping them regain confidence and independence.”

“We also understand that life doesn’t pause for an injury,” Burke explains. “Our goal is to make sure patients get the care they need when they need it, without added stress.”

Beyond direct patient care, the Orthopedic ONE hand therapy team is actively involved in the broader professional community. Orthopedic ONE hand therapists participate in national organizations, including the American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT) and the OrthoForum, to determine best practices in occupational therapy and support other therapists across the country. Locally, they work with Form 5, a nonprofit that partners engineers, designers, and healthcare professionals to create activity-specific prosthetics.

“This is about more than treating hands; it’s about advancing the profession, sharing knowledge, and connecting with other therapists so that more patients benefit,” Burke emphasizes.

The Orthopedic ONE Treatment Process

At Orthopedic ONE, care begins with an evaluation of the hand or upper extremity, and treatment starts conservatively with bracing, cortisone shots, or topical modalities. However, if the patient’s pain continues, surgery becomes the final step and “often offers the best hope of effectively addressing the pain and giving the patient their function back,” explains Dr. Wurapa.

Common conditions treated include tendonitis, fractures, nerve injuries, arthritis, lacerations, and post-surgical rehabilitation, usually on an outpatient basis. After treatment, therapy is often recommended first to increase mobility and then to build strength. However, each care plan and therapy session varies depending on the patient and their unique condition and progress.

A Collaborative Approach to Care

Unlike traditional outpatient care centers, Orthopedic ONE proudly integrates therapy and physician services for real-time collaboration. “Our therapists communicate directly with our surgeons, providing immediate updates on a patient’s progress,” says Dr. Wurapa. “Sometimes I learn new treatment strategies from the therapists themselves based on how the patient is responding. This feedback loop is critical for optimal care.”

Therapists agree. “Patients notice the difference,” Burke says. “Having a coordinated team where everyone is on the same page reduces anxiety and speeds up the recovery.” In most Orthopedic ONE locations, therapy and physician offices are housed in one building, allowing patients to move efficiently between appointments. Sometimes, surgeons will even attend hand therapy sessions, checking in on patient progress and allowing the therapist and surgeon to communicate findings or notes with the patient together. 

This collaborative approach doesn’t just make a difference for patients, but also for our hand therapy and surgical teams. As Burke notes, “I can’t imagine working anywhere else because of the collaboration and support we receive from the surgeons.” Likewise, Dr. Wurapa can’t fathom doing his job without an in-house hand therapy team. “Medicine and surgery are only a part of the solution. Our occupational therapists get our patients across the finish line.”

Patient Experience and Outcomes

The combination of expertise, communication, and patient-centered care creates a supportive environment that patients appreciate. Dr. Wurapa shares, “Many patients develop a strong rapport with their therapists and are genuinely disappointed when therapy sessions end. That speaks to the dedication of our team and the relationships our therapists build to ensure patients feel supported every step of the way.”

Whether addressing post-surgical recovery, chronic conditions, or acute injuries, the Orthopedic ONE team is committed to providing care that is precise, collaborative, and tailored to each patient’s needs. The integration of certified hand therapy and expert surgical care ensures that patients not only recover but also regain the full function necessary to return to their daily lives.

If you’re experiencing hand or upper extremity pain or have any related questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our team at Orthopedic ONE. We have the resources, staff, and locations to ensure you get the care you need, where you need it.