Osteoarthritis
Rheumatic joint disorder
Information
Osteoarthritis is a (rheumatic) joint disease caused by reduction in (quality) of cartilage. This can cause inflammation and lumps on the bone. It causes pain in fingers when moving, loss of strength and crookedness. Osteoarthritis is more common in the elderly, but there is no clear cause for its onset. Because osteoarthritis is degenerative, symptoms increase over time. Hand therapy is used to use your hands differently (joint protection) in your daily activities. This can be done with aids, changing your actions and possibly splints to provide rest.
About Handtherapie Amsterdam
As hand therapy specialists, we follow treatment protocols and guidelines. But we never lose sight of the fact that you are always different from the norm. We do this from our small practices, right in the middle of town.
Making an appointment
You do not need a referral from your general practitioner for treatment: you can schedule an appointment right away.
Questions & Answers
Is hand therapy proven to be effective?
Yes, hand therapy works "evidence-based." Although hand therapy can be different for each individual, we work according to guidelines based on scientific research. We naturally keep this up to date. Our therapists are post-graduate trained in hand therapy. Through our close cooperation with general practitioners and specialists, we achieve optimal results. Many treatments follow protocols that have been scientifically proven effective.
Can hand therapy prevent surgery?
When giving conservative therapy, we will look with you at how the complaint arises. Often this is related to your daily activities, the way you do what you have to do every day. We try to work with you to make adjustments in behavior, attitude, and help you learn new methods. If necessary, we can make a splint. In this way we try to prevent your symptoms from worsening and an intervention becoming necessary. Often you will discuss this with your general practitioner, and he or she will advise you to go through this process first, before considering options such as injections or surgery.
Is hand therapy covered by my insurance company?
Yes, by all insurers. You do not need additional insurance to be reimbursed. Hand therapy is a specialization within occupational therapy, and because of its effective and cost-saving methods, it is included in your insurance's basic package. You will be reimbursed for 10 hours per calendar year. Of course, the legally determined deductible applies.