Team Approach to Treatment of the Posttraumatic Stiff Hand

Abstract

Posttraumatic hand stiffness is a common but complex problem treated in many general clinics and in hand treatment centers. Although much information is available regarding various treatment procedures, the use of a team approach to evaluate and treat hand stiffness has not been examined thoroughly in the Journal. The problems of the patient with a stiff hand include both physical and psychological components that must be addressed in a structured manner. The clinical picture of posttraumatic hand stiffness involves edema, immobility, pain, and the inability to incorporate the affected extremity into daily activities. In this case report, we review the purpose and philosophy of the team approach to hand therapy and the clarification of responsibilities for physical therapy and occupational therapy intervention.