Orthopedic Physical Therapy Secrets- Module 8: The Wrist and Hand

Course Description:

This course is derived from the textbook by Jeffrey Placzek, MD, PT and David Boyce, PT, EdD, OCS.  This textbook is part of the popular Secrets series.  It presents physical therapy concepts and then introduces different healing modalities, specialties and orthopedic procedures typically prescribed for common injuries such as shoulders and extremities.  Common diseases are included as well as more innovative diagnostic tools for physical therapists such as radiology.  The text features concise information that includes tips, and memory “secrets”.  Bulleted lists, algorithms and illustrations provide a quick review of the specific topics discussed.  The information is interesting, entirely evidence-based, outcome based and up-to-date.  

Module 8: The Wrist and Hand- covers chapters 50 through 53.  

• Chapter 50: Functional Anatomy of the Wrist and Hand
• Chapter 51: Common Orthopedic Dysfunction of the Wrist and Hand
• Chapter 52: Fractures and Dislocations of the Wrist and Hand
• Chapter 53: Nerve Entrapments of the Wrist and Hand 

Methods of Instruction:

Online course available via internet 

Target Audience:

Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapist Assistants and Athletic Trainers 

Educational Level:

Intermediate 

Prerequisites:

None 

Course Goals and Objectives:

At the completion of this course, participants should be able to:

1. Recognize the anatomy of the carpal tunnel and the normal pressure in the carpal tunnel at various wrist positions
2. Identify anatomic landmarks for the zones of flexor tendon injury and extensor tendon injury
3. Identify proper splinting techniques for various injuries
4. Identify and differentiate between swan neck deformity, boutonniere deformity and pseudo-boutonniere deformity
5. Differentiate between the three rehabilitative approaches to treatment of flexor tendons
6. Identify the weakest time of a flexor tendon repair
7. Differentiate between boxer’s fracture, baseball finger, jersey finger, Bennett’s fracture and Rolando’s fracture
8. Identify contributions to the instability of a distal radius fracture after closed reduction
9. Recognize the classic findings of median nerve compression at the wrist
10. Recognize the validity of clinical examinations used for evaluating carpal tunnel 

Criteria for Obtaining Continuing Education Credits:

A score of 70% or greater on the post-test