Hand Therapy

Hand therapy is a specialty that evaluates and treats injuries and conditions of the upper extremity (shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist and hand).

Hand Therapy Center

Within the Institute for Plastic Surgery at SIU Medicine, we provide a dedicated team effort in the management of complex hand injuries or problems through our multidisciplinary Hand Therapy Center. The Hand Therapy Center provides a comprehensive approach for the treatment and rehabilitation of hands and upper extremities. Services include custom orthotics, exercises, modalities, work conditioning and functional capacity evaluation.

SIU Medicine specialists treat all types of injuries/diseases of the hand and upper extremity, which may include but are not limited to fractures, amputations, replants, nerve compression syndromes, tendon and nerve injuries and joint replacement.

Our team

Comprised of certified hand therapists who are also registered occupational therapists, the team works closely with the referring physicians to provide the best quality care possible. Eligibility for hand certification requires over 4,000 hours of hand experience and five years practice as a registered therapist. The Hand Therapy Center certified therapists have 15-30 years of experience specializing in hand and upper extremity rehabilitation. All therapists are registered occupational therapists and are members of the American Society of Hand Therapy.

History of the Hand Therapy Center

The Hand Therapy Center opened in 1989 and provides approximately 5,000 patient visits annually. When the center opened, the closest dedicated hand therapy centers were in Indianapolis, St. Louis, Chicago and Louisville. It was originally located in Memorial Medical Center on the 3rd floor as part of SIU Surgery Clinic. Since 1993, it has been located on the 3rd floor of the Baylis Medical Building, at the corner of Rutledge and Miller Streets.

Request an appointment

The Hand Therapy Center sees patients of all ages, from infant to adult. A physician referral is required. For a referral to an SIU hand specialty physician, please call 217-545-6314.