Question 1

What is The Upper Hand Clinic?

Accepted Answer

The Upper Hand Clinic is a Bendigo-based hand therapy clinic specialising in the treatment and rehabilitation of conditions affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. With 30 plus  years of clinical experience, and over 10 years in practice in Bendigo,  our team is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care to help patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence.​

Question 2

What services does The Upper Hand Clinic provide?

Accepted Answer

Our clinic offers comprehensive hand therapy services, including

Treatments & Therapies: Individualized, evidence-based care plans to address pain, injuries, and dysfunction. including injury rehabilitation of fractures, sprains, tendon and nerve injuries)
Pre/Post-Operative Assessment: Optimized care to prepare for surgery and support recovery afterward.
Wound, Scar & Edema Management: Expert treatment to promote healing, minimize scarring, and manage swelling.
Movement & Strength Training: Targeted programs to restore mobility, improve strength, and enhance function.
Braces, Supports, Splints & Orthotics: Custom and prefabricated solutions to protect, support, and facilitate recovery.
Ergonomic Workplace Recommendations: Advice and modifications to prevent injuries and improve comfort at work.
Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Assessments: Practical strategies to help you regain independence in everyday tasks including advice on equipment and devices that will facilitate independence and quicker return to work, sport and hobbies.
Pain Management Techniques: Hands-on therapies, exercises, and education to reduce acute and chronic pain.
Joint Protection & Energy Conservation: Techniques to minimize strain, protect joints, and maximize energy efficiency to reduce the impact of arthritis on daily living.
Sensory Re-Education: Training to improve sensation and hand awareness following nerve injuries.
Dexterity & Fine Motor Training: Programs to restore hand control for tasks requiring precision and coordination.
Sports Injury Rehabilitation: Recovery plans designed to get you back to sport safely and efficiently following hand fractures  and other sports injuries
Workplace Injury Rehabilitation: Tailored therapy to assist recovery and support return-to-work programs
Education:  Education and information regarding pathology, healing time frames, treatment options including surgical as well as therapy options and self managment and lifestyle strategies.

At The Upper Hand Clinic, our skilled hand therapists combine compassion, expertise, and evidence-based treatments to help you achieve your goals and regain independence in your daily life.

Question 3

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

Although a medical referral outlining presenting problems and outcomes of any investigations is valued, If you are privately insured or self funding you do not need a referral to see us at the Upper Hand Clinic.

If you have a referral from your GP, surgeon, or another specialist, we will work closely with them to ensure you receive the best care tailored to your specific needs.

If you are seeking for therapy to be rebated by by Workcover, DVA or Medicare through a GPCCMP (GP Chronic Condition Management Plan) then you will need a referral from your medical provider along with a valid Claim Number / VA / Medicare number as appropriate. Rebates through TAC do not require referrals  if a TAC claim has been accepted.  Following the initial 90 Days further approval is required from TAC.

Question 4

Who will benefit from hand therapy?

Accepted Answer

Our services are suitable for anyone dealing with finger, hand, wrist, elbow, or issues. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition like arthritis, or seeking relief from a sports injury, we can help. We treat paediatric patients as well adults  and welcome patients  of all backgrounds, with customised programs to address unique goals and challenges.

Question 5

How long does hand therapy take?

Accepted Answer

The length of therapy varies depending on the condition, its severity, and individual goals. Some patients benefit from a few sessions, while others with complex injuries may require ongoing support. Our therapists will work with you to create a plan that fits your recovery timeline. Our aim is to empower you to manage your own conditions giving you "the upper hand for life".

Question 6

What's involved in a hand therapy session?

Accepted Answer

In a typical session, our  Practitioner of Hand Therapy will assess your condition develop an understanding of your functional needs and goals and work towards a shared rehabilitation journey. Each session is tailored to your condition, goals, and progress.  As well as providing hands on care, splints and supports, and adaptive equipment, we will  provide you with a program and strategies to perform at home, along with education to promote self-care and long-term recovery.

Question 7

How can hand therapy help with arthritis?

Accepted Answer

Hand therapy is highly effective for arthritis management, helping reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life. Our therapists provide customised exercises, joint protection strategies, and splinting options to support daily activities and slow the progression of symptoms.  Education about the different types of arthritis,( including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis)  its cause and preventing further damage in an important part of the treatment.

Question 8

Do you offer custom splints orthosis or braces ?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we specialise in custom splinting and bracing to support your recovery and enhance comfort. Splints are designed based on your specific needs, providing support for conditions like fractures, tendon injuries, arthritis, or post-surgical healing. Our splints are manufactured (mostly out of a specialised plastic) for maximum function and comfort. Splints may be fabricated for a  specific task such as improved hand writing or holding a phone. 
 
Splints and guards may also be fabricated to facilitate early and safe return to sport

Question 9

Can hand therapy help me return to work or sports?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We focus on helping patients achieve functional goals, whether returning to work, resuming sports, or simply regaining independence in daily tasks. Our therapists design treatment plans that target the specific movements and strength needed for your unique lifestyle.​

What conditions do you treat that impact a persons ability to work or return to sport?

We treat a variety of conditions. Some of the more commonly treated conditions include:

> Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
> Trigger Finger
> Tendon lacerations and nerve injuries
> De Quervain's Tendinopathy
> Arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
> Fractures and sprains
> Dupuytren's Disease
> Mallet Finger and volar plate injuries
> Tendinopathy / tendonitis 
> Lateral / medial elbow pain

If you’re dealing with pain, discomfort, or limited function in your hand or upper limb, and it is affecting your ability to work , sport or undertake your normal activities, we can help

Question 10

How can I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Booking an appointment is easy. You can call us directly, or use our online booking system to schedule a time that works for you. Our clinic is conveniently located in Bendigo, and we welcome patients from the surrounding areas.

Question 11

Why did you change from Sandhurst Hand Clinic to The Upper Hand Clinic?

Accepted Answer

After 10 years as Sandhurst Hand Therapy, we rebranded to The Upper Hand Clinic to reflect our commitment to supporting long-term health, engagement, and empowerment for our patients. Our new name captures our expanded services, focusing not only on the hands but on the full upper limb, with a philosophy centred on empowering patients to experience the upper hand: for life.

Question 12

What's the difference between a hand physio and occupational hand therapist?

Accepted Answer

Both hand physiotherapists and occupational hand therapists are degree qualified healthcare professionals who specialize in treating conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and upper limb. However, there are some key differences in their approach and focus:

In essence the fundamental philosophical differences are that a:
A hand physio helps you move better.   
An occupational hand therapist helps you do more.

However, In reality there is very little difference in practice, Hand Physiotherapists and Hand Occupational Therapists often work together in hand therapy practices, combining their expertise to provide holistic care tailored to the client’s needs. Both play a critical role in optimizing recovery and improving quality of life.

Question 13

Do you treat children with hand conditions at Upper Hand For Life?

Accepted Answer

Yes, The Upper Hand Clinic treats children with hand conditions. We are dedicated to providing  care tailored to the unique needs of young patients. We address a variety of pediatric hand conditions, including congenital abnormalities, injuries, "clasped thumb"  and other developmental issues as well as finger tip injuries, fractures and sporting injuries

Question 14

What is an Accredited Hand Therapist, and how can they assist with my treatment at Upper Hand For Life?

Accepted Answer

An Accredited Hand Therapist, as awarded by the Australian Hand Therapy Association, is a highly specialized professional with advanced training in the comprehensive management of hand, wrist, and upper limb conditions. This certification signifies that the therapist has met rigorous education, clinical experience, and proficiency standards specifically in the field of hand therapy. This can be a hand physio or a hand occupational therapist who has undergone extensive training and assessment

At Upper Hand For Life, our Accredited Hand Therapists are committed to providing expert care tailored to individual needs. They develop personalized rehabilitation plans utilizing techniques such as manual therapy, exercise prescription, splinting, and patient education. Their extensive approach ensures immediate concerns are addressed and promotes long-term recovery and enhanced upper limb function, delivering a holistic treatment experience.