The goal of Occupational Therapy (www.aota.org) or OT is to maximize function and life role performance after loss of independence or function following injury or disease. OT is unique in its approach by using the actual task and functional activity as rehabilitation interventions when possible. Physical agent modalities and exercise are also utilized. Occupational Therapists are also able to fabricate custom splints, train in the use of adaptive equipment, and teach adaptive techniques when the physical deficits cannot be overcome.

The St. Francis Occupational Therapy team is experienced in upper extremity/hand rehabilitation. Diagnoses treated run the gamut of simple overuse syndromes to complex multiple trauma effecting the nerves, bones, muscles, and circulatory system of the arm and hand.

A Certified Hand Therapist or CHT (www.htcc.org), a therapist in the process of becoming a Certified Ergonomic Evaluation Specialist, and a LeDuc technique lymphedema management trained therapist are on the Occupational Therapy staff. Industrial rehabilitation is another focus of St. Francis Occupational Therapy. The internationally recognized Isernhagen (www.workwell.com) system of Functional Capacity Evaluation, Functional Job Analysis, and Pre-work Screen is utilized.