Instructional Concurrent Session 3

The ASHT members spoke and we listened! This instructional concurrent session is born from the desire of ASHT members to have a research community and will be an opportunity for new and experienced hand therapy researchers to learn more about the hand therapy research process, how to get involved, and how to transform ideas into publications. Our membership has questions and we want to use a semi-structured panel discussion to help them find and learn their answers. Attendees will be able to use an interactive application to ask questions of an ASHT Research Division panel throughout this session. The moderator will pose questions from the audience or questions prepared ahead of time as needed to the panel. Attendees will get to hear the answers to these questions from experienced hand therapy researchers with a wide variety of backgrounds.

Level: Intermediate

Ulnar-sided wrist pain can be attributed to trauma, overuse, or anatomical variations. Due to its complex and intricate anatomy including the distal radioulnar joint, triangular fibrocartilage complex, and surrounding musculature, providing effective conservative treatments is a significant challenge for clinicians. This session will explore the interplay of the structures crucial for wrist stability, as well as treatment strategies such as exercise, manual therapy and patient education to restore function, promote healing, and achieve lasting pain relief.

Level: Entry

Hand therapists can struggle to provide evidence-based interventions that address the psychological challenges clients face after hand and upper extremity injuries, especially in fast-paced, productivity-driven environments. Comprehensive care must include the assessment and treatment of psychological well-being to support optimal recovery. This session introduces Cognitive Behavioral Informed Therapy (CBIT) as an effective approach to help clients manage both the physical and emotional impacts of their injuries. Therapists will learn practical CBIT interventions, including activity rest cycling, values-based goal setting, and support groups, to integrate into their treatment programs for improved client outcomes.

Level: Entry

Flexor tendon repair and rehabilitation can pose a challenge for the most skilled surgeon and therapist. When taking care of a pediatric patient, the tiny anatomy and reduced compliance and motivation of the developing child results in an even greater challenge. Therapist considerations of developmental level and skills is critical to enhance participation. This session will provide an overview of creative and age-appropriate activities and strategies that comply with protocol guidelines to be used as a resource. This presentation will provide therapists with practical insight and recommendations to help increase confidence in pediatric post-operative management. The multi-disciplinary perspective of a pediatric hand surgeon in collaboration with hand therapists will provide a comprehensive understanding of management from the surgical repair until rehabilitation discharge.

Level: Intermediate