OrthoBethesdaPT_Hand Therapy for Upper Extremity Tendonitis

OrthoBethesdaPT_Hand Therapy for Upper Extremity Tendonitis

THE BENEFITS OF HAND THERAPY FOR UPPER EXTREMITY TENDONITIS NEWSLETTER Health & Wellness Newsletter Live Life Pain-free INSIDE: •The Benefits of Hand Therapy for Upper Extremity Tendonitis T H E R A P Y S E R V I C E S

• Signs & Symptoms of Tendonitis in the Hand • Featured Service: Hand Therapy • Annual 5k Race • Exercise Essentials

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Call (240) 482-2438 to Make an Appointment!

OUR SERVICES

• Physical Therapy • Hand Therapy

• Custom Foot Orthotics

• Dry Needling • And More!

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Live Life Pain-free

Health & Wellness Newsletter

T H E R A P Y S E R V I C E S

NEWSLETTER

This is common among people who perform a lot of repetitive movement with their hands. They may lift, move, or manipulate objects too frequently or too quickly, or may lift objects which are too heavy relative to their general physical capacity. Such stress and strain on the tendons is common among athletes, particularly those who play sports like tennis, golf, racquetball, baseball, field hockey, and badminton. Indeed, elbow tendonitis is so common among golfers and tennis players that their sports-specificmanifestations are actually called golfer’s elbow (tendonitis in the inner elbow) and tennis elbow (tendonitis in the outer elbow). Sometimes, the presence of some other underlying condition, such as an autoimmune disease like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause or increase a person’s risk for tendonitis. Cigarette use may also increase a person’s risk for this and other musculoskeletal conditions, since smoking tends to increase inflammation in the body. Additional risk factors include poor body mechanics, direct trauma, and even the use of certain antibiotics. UPPER EXTREMITY TENDONITIS THE BENEFITS OF HAND THERAPY FOR Have you been suffering with tendonitis in the elbow and hand? Seeing a hand therapist at OrthoBethesda can help you return to a more active and pain-free life. Give us a call today at (240) 482-3106 or visit our website at orthobethesda.com.

Is your elbow sore? Are your fingers achy and not moving smoothly and comfortably? If so, you may be suffering from a common musculoskeletal condition called tendonitis. What is Tendonitis? Tendons are bands of durable collagen fibers; their role is to connect muscles to bones and help facilitate proper anatomical movement and support. The suffix -itis is a telltale clue that tendonitis is primarily an issue of inflammation. When something stresses or overloads the tendons, small microtears in the tendon fibers can occur, leading to tissue damage, inflammation, pain, and related symptoms. Common Causes & Types of Tendonitis in the Elbow & Hand Tendonitis can affect tendons all over the body—such as in the case of Achilles tendonitis (in the ankle), patellar tendonitis (in the knee), or biceps tendonitis (in the shoulder). When it occurs in the elbow or hand, basic daily tasks like writing, grooming, and even opening doors and jars can become challenging.

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SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF TENDONITIS IN THE HAND

Common symptoms in an area of the elbow or hand affected by tendonitis include: • Swelling • Pain (often sore and achy) at rest and with movement • Tenderness over the affected area • Decreased grip strength • Decreased ability to lift, move, turn, or manipulate objects • The feeling of popping or clicking (particularly if tendonitis is in the hand and fingers) The Benefits of Hand Therapy for Upper Extremity Tendonitis Hand therapy can be extremely beneficial if you’re struggling with tendonitis. Unlike conventional medications—which can provide much-needed pain relief but may also come with unwanted side effects—hand therapy addresses symptoms and root causes of inflammation and tendon damage. In this way, relief is more thorough and longer-lasting. Hand therapy for tendonitis may include modalities and techniques such as: 1. THERAPEUTIC EXERCISES, prescribed to facilitate tissue healing, reduced inflammation, and (later in the recovery process) improved strength of the muscles in the elbow, forearm, and hand. 2. THERMAL MODALITIES, which relieve pain by stimulating different sensory receptors and blocking noxious signals sent via the nervous system.

3. NEUROMUSCULAR RE-EDUCATION, prescribed to make you move efficiently and effectively. 4. LIFESTYLE AND ERGONOMIC MODIFICATIONS, to improve a person’s body mechanics and prevent repetitive tissue damage. 5. SPLINTING AND BRACING, to temporarily immobilize and / or support injured tendons as they heal. Are you or a loved one currently affected by tendonitis in the elbow or hand? Contact us today at (240) 482-3106 to schedule a hand therapy consultation and find out more about how we can help.

HEALTHY RECIPE: BERRY & ALMOND SMOOTHIE BOWL

INGREDIENTS • ⅔ cup frozen raspberries • ½ cup frozen sliced banana • ½ cup plain unsweetened almond milk • 5 tbsp sliced almonds, divided • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

• ⅛ tsp ground cardamom • ⅛ tsp vanilla extract • ¼ cup blueberries • 1 tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes

INSTRUCTIONS Blend raspberries, banana, almond milk, 3 tablespoons almonds, cinnamon, cardamom and vanilla in a blender until very smooth. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with blueberries, the remaining 2 tablespoons almonds and coconut.

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Patient Success Spotlight SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF TENDONITIS IN THE HAND FE ATURED SERVICE : HA D THERAPY

I was able to play in my first office baseball game pain free! “Thanks to Jenna I am happy to report that I am recovering very well. I am back to my normal activities and have full range of motion in my elbow after surgery. I was able to play in my first office baseball game pain free! Everyone in the hand therapy department made me feel very comfortable and Jenna’s knowledge on my procedure really helped me relax. Thank you so much Jenna for helping me get back on the field!” • Conditioning prior to returning to work Located in the physician suite on the fifth floor is our Hand Therapy Clinic. With advanced study and experience, our hand therapist specializes in treating individuals with conditions affecting the hands and upper extremities, including injuries or ailments to the wrists and elbows. Whether you’re in need of preventive care or post-operative therapy, our hand therapists are equipped to treat a variety of conditions and issues. Request a hand therapy visit at OrthoBethesda today by calling (240) 482-3106. Come see how hand therapy can help you get back to living the life you love. 3. NEUROMUSCULAR RE-EDUCATION, prescribed to make you move efficiently and effectively. 4. LIFESTYLE AND ERGONOMIC MODIFICATIONS, to improve a person’s body mechanics and prevent repetitive tissue damage. 5. SPLINTING AND BRACING, to temporarily immobilize and / or support injured tendons as they heal. orthobethesda.com Therapist) at a nation-wide examination in 2005. In 2013, she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Drexel University, and achieved Dry Needling Certification in 2015. Having recovered from multiple surgeries in her professional tennis carrier, Ann empathizes as she navigates the rehabilitation process with each of her patients. She continues to “stay fit” by focusing on bicycle riding, swimming, and weight lifting. If you come to spend time with her, be prepared to discuss movies! INGREDIENTS • ⅔ cup frozen raspberries • ½ cup frozen sliced banana • ½ cup plain unsweetened almond milk • 5 tbsp sliced almonds, divided • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon • ⅛ tsp ground cardamom • ⅛ tsp vanilla extract • ¼ cup blueberries • 1 tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes INSTRUCTIONS Blend raspberries, banana, lmond milk, 3 tablespoons almonds, cinnamon, cardamom and vanilla in a blend r until very smooth. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with blueberries, the remaining 2 tablespoons almonds and coconut. OrthoBethesda is pleased to announce our Annual “OrthoBethesda G eat Strides 5k” – an opportunity for our surgeons and staff to help promote fitness, strengthen bones, and have some fun with our patients d community. We hope you and your famili s will join us, walk or run! The race will benefit Hope for Hypothalamic Hamartomas Foundation (Hope for HH), founded by one of our very own, Dr. Craig A. Miller and his wife Ilene. Hypothalamic hamartoma is a rare brain tum r within the hyp thalamus that causes seizures, severe cognitive delays and rages. Proceeds of the race will help Hope for HH r ise awareness, support families and fund critical research. ALI DAMICO, OTR/L Ali is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a Master of Occupational Therapy Degree. She first developed a fascination with the Upper Extremity during her first anatomy class. Ali is currently pursuing her Certified Hand Therapist credentials. She is very interested in continually learning about the field through both her colleagues and conferences. Ali enjoys cooking, spending time with her family and dog, and good wine. If you meet Ali, please come with restaurant recommendations!

What Are the Benefits of Hand Therapy?

Common symptoms in an area of the elbow or hand affected by tendonitis include: • Swelling • Pain (often sore and achy) at rest and with movement • Tenderness over the affected area • Decreased grip strength • Decreased ability to lift, move, turn, or manipulate objects • The feeling of popping or clicking (particularly if tendonitis is in the hand and fingers) The Benefits of Hand Therapy for Upper Extremity Tendonitis Hand therapy can be extremely beneficial if you’re struggling with tendonitis. Unlike conventional medications—which can provide much-needed pain relief but may also come with unwanted side effects—hand therapy addresses symptoms and root causes of inflammation and tendon damage. In this way, relief is more thorough and longer-lasting. Hand therapy for tendonitis may include modalities and techniques such as: 1. THERAPEUTIC EXERCISES, prescribed to facilitate tissue healing, reduced inflammation, and (later in the recovery process) improved strength of the muscles in the elbow, forearm, and hand. 2. THERMAL MODALITIES, which relieve pain by stimulating different sensory receptors and blocking noxious signals sent via the nervous system. Hand Therapy is a specialized area of physical or occupational therapy. It focuses on treating orthopedic upper extremity issues to optimize the functional use of the arm and hand. Typical conditions that affect the hand are lacerations, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, fractures and rheumatoid arthritis. In general, hand therapy focuses on the biomechanical issues of upper-extremity conditions. It’s a patient-centered approach that addresses the needs of the patient, such as being able to lift things, open a jar, or button a shirt. Hand therapy interventions by a physical or occupational therapist may include: therapeutic exercises, orthosis design, pain management, manual therapy, taping, ergonomics and compression therapy.

• Preventative, non-operative or conservative treatment • Management of acute or chronic pain • Desensitization following nerve injury or trauma • Sensory re-education after nerve injury • Design and implementation of home exercise programs to increase motion, dexterity, and/ or strength • Customized splint fabrication for prevention or correction of injury • Training in the performance of daily life skills through adapted methods and equipment

Getting to Know The TEAM

ANN A.C. STEIGER, PT, DPT, CHT Ann received her Master of Physical Therapy degree from Shenandoah University in 1993 and earned the K. Madison Smith Award for Clinical Excellence. With a passion for the Upper Extremity, she attended Drexel University in 2004 for specialization of hand and arm rehabilitation, and earned her credentials as a CHT (Certified Hand Are you or a loved one currently affected by tendonitis in the elbow or hand? Contact us today at (240) 482-3106 to schedule a hand therapy consultation and find out more about how we can help. SEPTEMBER 15 TH GET READY FOR OUR ANNUAL GREAT STRIDES 5K RACE IN SEPTEMBER! JENNA NEFF, MSOTR/L, CHT Jenna graduated from Misericordia University with a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy in 2009. She soon became intrigued by the artistry of hand and upper extremity rehabilitation. Jenna completed a Certificate in Advanced Practice in Hand and Upper Quarter Rehabilitation from Drexel University in 2015. She pursued and

earned her credentials as a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) in 2017. Jenna is motivated by the process of continual learning, and enjoys pursuing this through interactions with colleagues and knowledge of new research. A grand variety of interests occupy her free time. These include playing competitive field hockey, indulging in a yummy brunch, or cheering for the Philadelphia Eagles. Please bring her dark chocolate, and a new recommendation for a book or podcast. HEALTHY RECIPE: BERRY & ALMOND SMOOTHIE BOWL

CHRISTINE ZAMMETT, PT, MPT, CHT Christine graduated from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore with a Master of Physical Therapy degree in 2004. After practicing general orthopedic physical therapy, Christine developed an interest in hand therapy specialization. She completed a Certificate of Hand and Upper Quarter from Drexel University in 2011 and then went onto

earn her credentials as a Certified Hand Therapist. Christine has taken extensive continuing education on hand therapy and has recently trained in trigger point dry needling. Christine grew up in Gaithersburg, MD and enjoys reading, spending time with her family and gardening.

Photo Credit: Ana Isabel Photography

Great Strides 5k: 10215 FERNWOOD RD, BETHESDA , MD 20817

orthobeth sda.com

orthobethesda.com

FE ATURED SERVICE : HAND THERAPY

• Conditioning prior to returning to work Located in the physician suite on the fifth floor is our Hand Therapy Clinic. With advanced study and experience, our hand therapist specializes in treating individuals with conditions affecting the hands and upper extremities, including injuries or ailments to the wrists and elbows. Whether you’re in need of preventive care or post-operative therapy, our hand therapists are equipped to treat a variety of conditions and issues. Request a hand therapy visit at OrthoBethesda today by calling (240) 482-3106. Come see how hand therapy can help you get back to living the life you love.

What Are the Benefits of Hand Therapy?

Hand Therapy is a specialized area of physical or occupational therapy. It focuses on treating orthopedic upper extremity issues to optimize the functional use of the arm and hand. Typical conditions that affect the hand are lacerations, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, fractures and rheumatoid arthritis. In general, hand therapy focuses on the biomechanical issues of upper-extremity conditions. It’s a patient-centered approach that addresses the needs of the patient, such as being able to lift things, open a jar, or button a shirt. Hand therapy interventions by a physical or occupational therapist may include: therapeutic exercises, orthosis design, pain management, manual therapy, taping, ergonomics and compression therapy.

• Preventative, non-operative or conservative treatment • Management of acute or chronic pain • Desensitization following nerve injury or trauma • Sensory re-education after nerve injury • Design and implementation of home exercise programs to increase motion, dexterity, and/ or strength • Customized splint fabrication for prevention or correction of injury • Training in the performance of daily life skills through adapted methods and equipment

orthobethesda.com

SEPTEMBER 15 TH GET READY FOR OUR ANNUAL GREAT STRIDES 5K RACE IN SEPTEMBER!

OrthoBethesda is pleased to announce our Annual “OrthoBethesda Great Strides 5k” – an opportunity for our surgeons and staff to help promote fitness, strengthen bones, and have some fun with our patients and community. We hope you and your families will join us, walk or run! The race will benefit Hope for Hypothalamic Hamartomas Foundation (Hope for HH), founded by one of our very own, Dr. Craig A. Miller and his wife Ilene. Hypothalamic hamartoma is a rare brain tumor within the hypothalamus that causes seizures, severe cognitive delays and rages. Proceeds of the race will help Hope for HH raise awareness, support families and fund critical research.

Photo Credit: Ana Isabel Photography

Great Strides 5k: 10215 FERNWOOD RD, BETHESDA , MD 20817

Exercise Essentials Your therapist may prescribe these exercises.

About Us OrthoBethesda Therapy Services is the rehabilitation department for the OrthoBethesda surgical practice. We have 2 clinics in the Camalier Building. Our orthopedic physical therapy clinic is located on the 3rd floor. Our highly trained staff consists of 18 physical therapists and 2 physical therapy assistants. All of our clinicians treat general orthopedic conditions and have a variety of subspecialties. Our hand therapy department is located on the 5th floor. We have 4 clinicians who specialize in the rehabilitation of hand injuries. We have 2 physical therapists and 2 occupational therapists, all of whom have advanced training of complex injuries of the wrist and hand. Historically, our therapists have treated patients who were under the care of OrthoBethesda physicians. As part of our mission to better serve the community, we have expanded our staff and facility to provide world class therapy services to patients under the care of outside physicians. We consistently strive to provide the highest level of rehabilitation for all our patients. Our goal is to always have 100% patient satisfaction. Our infrastructure is built around this goal. We have spent years developing a model of therapy to assure that our patients can achieve their full potential. Having a staff with diverse clinical backgrounds has given us the opportunity to create a unique therapy experience. Our clinic has been able to deliver the customized care that is commonly found in smaller clinics while being able to deliver the specialization that can only be found in larger clinics. We look forward to sharing more information with you about our expert physical therapists in our monthly newsletter.

HAND TENDON GLIDES DIFFERENTIAL FIST

Preparation: • Start with an open hand. • Keep your wrist straight throughout the exercise.

Helps with Mobility

Execution: • Curl finger tips towards hand. Keep your knuckle joints straight to make a ‘Hook.’ • Move the knuckle joints and fingertips into a straight position, touching the tips of your fingers to your palm to make a ‘Table Top.’ • Bend all finger joints into hand to make a fist.

Exercises copyright of

Always consult your physical therapist or physician before starting exercises you are unsure of doing.

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DRY NEEDLING OthoBethesda Physical Therapy has 7 physical therapists who are registered with the Maryland Board of Physical Therapy Examiners to perform dry needling. All of these clinicians have extensive training and experience with this intervention. Please see our website at orthobethesda.com to learn more about dry needling and see if it may be appropriate for you.

TIPS FROM THERAPISTS

The Key to Orthopedic Health

A lot of people spend multiple hours a day at a computer workstation. Proper office ergonomics is critical in maintaining your orthopedic health. Poor workstation setup can lead to cumulative micro trauma and pain in multiple joints including your hands and wrists. Your therapist can assist with suggestions on how to modify your workstation to minimize stress and strain on your body. Even with a properly designed workstation, it is important to get up from sitting, take a break from the computer and walk several times a day.

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