Instructional Concurrent Session 6

Breast cancer will affect 1 in 8 women, and the treatments for breast cancer can lead to impairments in upper extremity function and decreased quality of life for survivors. Decreased ROM, impaired sensation, scarring, and pain are a few of potential treatment side effects. Yet rehabilitation services are under utilized in this population. As hand therapists, we are in a unique position to treat this population of patients. The goal of this session is to provide the attendee with an overview of treatment strategies for patients who have undergone lumpectomy, mastectomy, lymph node resection, radiation and/or chemotherapy. We will discuss the importance of exercises designed to prevent lymphedema and build strength and improve function. We will look at the importance of addressing scapular dysfunction and posture as well as assessing and addressing axillary web syndrome. We will also look at the effects of radiation on healing and soft tissue structures.

Level: Intermediate

When treating distal nerve compressions of the arm, it is important to consider all the potential sources of irritations to the nerve from the neck down. Numbness and tingling in the fingers do not necessarily equate to an isolated nerve compression. It is often the cumulative effect of movement faults related to habit and posture. This presentation will address a comprehensive exam that includes postural analysis, ergonomics of worksite and sleep, use patterns, muscle length and strength, and review of special tests. Treatment concepts that take you out of the hand “box” will be explored. Case based discussion will be presented with ideas to expand and enhance your treatment skills for this often frustrating patient population.

Level: Entry 

Renowned hand surgeon and upper extremity therapist leader will share their wealth of expertise in working with elite and professional athletes. Their presentation will highlight two common sports hand and thumb injuries that require surgery: metacarpal shaft fractures and thumb ulnar collateral ligament tears. They will use case examples to discuss the advances in surgical techniques that have enabled rehabilitation timelines to be safely accelerated. Sport specific clinical rehabilitation interventions will be shared for each diagnosis. The speakers will also highlight the collaborative surgeon/therapist partnership necessary for athletes to successfully and safely accelerate return to sport at an elite level. At the end of the presentation, the audience will have a better understanding of: the advances in surgical techniques, athlete centered accelerated rehabilitation progressions, and the dynamic surgeon/therapist teamwork required for optimal outcomes.

Level: Intermediate