Meridian Hand Therapy FAQ

Our entire staff strives for excellence in providing the highest quality care for our patients. We know that finding the right therapist can be overwhelming at times, especially when dealing with a condition that requires treatment. To help make things a little easier, we've put together a list of the most common questions asked by our patients.

What is required to receive our services?

You will need a prescription for therapy from your doctor if you would like your insurance billed. You will need a referral if your insurance plan requires one. On your first visit, you need to bring your prescription, your referral (if needed), your insurance card(s) and a government issued identification.

What information do I need to schedule an appointment?

• Patient's name
• Contact phone number
• Physician's full name
• Insurance company name / type of insurance

What hours are available for appointments?

We are open Monday through Friday 8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

Will you communicate with my doctor?

We do send your doctor our initial evaluation and periodic progress reports on your recovery. If any issues arise during the duration of therapy, our office will contact your doctor directly.

What can I expect from therapy?

Every patient’s condition is unique. We provide treatment for patients immediately after an operation to manage open or sutured wounds, control hypertrophic/raised scars, and/or to reduce swelling. We can custom fabricate orthotic devices in our office, to help prevent further injuries or correct existing conditions. We help our patients manage their pain, de-sensitize injured tissues, and implement a customized regimen of exercises tailored to each patient.

Does therapy hurt?

The goal of our therapists is to help patients recover the use of their hands, or other areas of the upper extremity. We get to know the unique needs of each of our patients, including any issues relating to pain. We strongly encourage patients to engage in an open discussion with their treating therapist, with any concerns regarding pain, levels of discomfort, or treatment as a whole. We focus on goals that will aid in patient recovery, allowing us to achieve a balance between discomfort and healing.

How long will therapy take?

The amount of time you spend in therapy depends entirely on your individual condition. Some of our patients require only a few visits, while other patients can require several months of therapy. On your first visit we will evaluate your condition and outline your specific program. Recovery begins at your first visit.

How often will I have treatment?

Treatment sessions are tailored to each individual and may be scheduled two to three times each week. Session duration and frequency may change over time, but this is based entirely on your specific condition and the progress you make in recovery.

How long will each treatment be?

On average, your first session, which includes your initial evaluation, will last 1 - 1.5 hours. Subsequent visits average 45 minutes to 1 hour. These averages may change based on the nature and severity of your condition.

How involved can I be in therapy?

We encourage each patient to be involved in every aspect of their recovery - from learning and understanding about their condition, to setting personal goals within therapy. Your home exercise program is as important as your office visits. If questions come up during your home exercise program, please call us directly so we can provide the necessary help between therapy sessions.

Will I do home exercises?

A patient may be given a customized regimen of exercises to be performed each day outside of office treatment, depending on the characteristics of their condition. Successful therapy requires measured, and often frequent, use of your hands or other areas of the upper extremity. This portion of your therapy is discussed, and often practiced at length in your treatment sessions.

Can family members help in my recovery?

Recovery can affect your entire household, as normal activities and behaviors can be altered during the process. This being the case, many of our patients find it helpful to involve family members in their recovery. As every condition and patient situation is different, this is entirely up to you. We are happy to discuss ways to involve your family.