Do I need a doctor’s referral to receive treatment?

Thanks to Direct Access, you do not need a doctor’s referral or prescription to receive treatment from a hand therapist. Direct Access is the legal right that enables patients in all fifty states and the District of Columbia to access hand therapy services and programs directly.
Do keep in mind that Direct Access does not apply to insurance carriers, who may require a referral or prescription. Reach out to your insurance provider to confirm the details.

Can I go to any hand therapy clinic I want?

Absolutely! According to “The Patient’s Bill of Rights” law, you can choose what hand therapy clinic you want for your care. While physicians or insurance carriers may recommend a specific clinic, you are not obligated to follow their suggestions. Your fundamental patient rights protect your ability to make informed decisions about your treatment and ensure you are treated with respect and confidentiality.

Choose Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab for accessible, personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Start your journey towards improved health and sports performance today!

How can I make an appointment?

At Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab , we understand the importance of flexibility and convenience when it comes to managing your healthcare needs. That’s why we’ve made scheduling an appointment at our Fort Myers, FL location a seamless and hassle-free experience. With various appointment times, including morning and evening options, we’re committed to accommodating your busy schedule.

To book your appointment, give us a call at (239) 344-8404 or click here to request an appointment through our user-friendly online platform. Our dedicated team is ready to assist you and answer any questions.

How is my progress measured?

Our providers know the importance of measuring your impairments and functional limitations so we can better design a customized treatment plan and more easily track your progress during the course of your treatment.

We’ll look at objective measurements of your physical capabilities, including specific tests of fitness such as the following:

  • Heart rate and blood pressure
  • Range of motion
  • Strength (i.e., power, speed, endurance)
  • Functional mobility
  • Coordination and agility

We’ll also look at impairments that can impact your comfort and physical ability, including the following:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Weakness
  • Loss of motion
  • Paresthesias (prickling or tingling sensations)

Functional limitations are the final piece of the puzzle. These limitations affect your ability to do everyday tasks like the following:

  • Sitting
  • Standing
  • Reaching
  • Squatting and lunging
  • Walking and stepping up and down

By tracking your overall fitness markers, physical impairments, and functional abilities throughout the course of your treatment, our providers have an objective picture of your progress, allowing us to adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

However, we also want to hear from you. Your feedback and personal assessments are an invaluable part of this process, as they help us more fully understand your improvements, regressions, or stagnation. If your therapy deviates from its expected path, our therapists will reassess the situation and make necessary adjustments or recommendations for further evaluation or treatments.

Our ultimate goal is to help you notice tangible improvements in your performance, functionality, and overall well-being. Tracking your impairments, limitations, and progress are all key to accomplishing that goal.

You can trust our evidence-based expertise to help you achieve your sports and fitness goals!

How long is each appointment going to be?

Appointment durations vary based on individual needs. That said, initial sessions typically last between 45 minutes to one hour. Subsequent sessions generally range from 45-60 minutes but could always be shorter or longer depending on your treatment needs.

Generally speaking, your therapist will want to see you more often in the early stages of your therapy, as this will help them assess your progress and confirm you’re on the right treatment plan. At first, you’ll likely attend sessions twice a week, then space them out as you proceed through treatment.

Our therapists will work with you to determine the best length and frequency of your appointments to ensure your optimal progress.

Will my insurance cover the cost of treatment?

We understand that navigating insurance can be complex, which is why our team at Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab is here to help answer your questions and provide guidance. We recommend contacting your insurance carrier to confirm coverage based on your specific policy.

You can also visit our insurance plans page for more information or contact our Fort Myers, FL hand therapy office for assistance.

For your convenience, we provide a variety of payment alternatives.

What is occupational therapy?

Occupational therapy is a field of healthcare dedicated to helping you do the things you want and need to do. “Occupational” in this context refers to everyday activities ranging from household chores to recreational activities, not just work tasks–although those are included, too!

Our expert occupational therapists work with individuals of all ages who may have physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental challenges that prevent them from participating in the activities that matter most to them. We use various evidence-based strategies and approaches customized to your particular needs.

Here are just a few of the services we can provide:

  • Adaptive equipment and environmental modifications to improve your independence and safety
  • Custom orthosis (splint) fabrication to help improve or maintain function. These are often a necessary part of your post-surgical healing to ensure proper healing and long-term success.
  • Self-care training to help you manage your daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming
  • Work conditioning and ergonomics to help you return to work safely and efficiently
  • Stress management and relaxation techniques to help you cope with emotional and mental health challenges
  • Hand therapy to improve hand and arm function and prevent further injury

Our Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab occupational therapists conduct comprehensive assessments to identify your strengths, limitations, and needs. We’ll then use that information to develop personalized treatment plans.

Our treatment approaches include various techniques, exercises, and modalities pulled from the latest research in the field. We’ll help you improve your function and develop strategies and tools to overcome any barriers you may face.

If you or a loved one want to improve your ability to participate in day-to-day activities, we’re here to help. Contact Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert occupational therapists.

What if I do not have insurance?

At Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab , we believe that everyone deserves access to quality care, regardless of their insurance status. For patients without insurance, we offer cash-based options and payment plans payable at the time of service. Don’t hesitate to contact our Fort Myers clinic to discuss costs and payment arrangements.

Your well-being is our priority, and our dedicated team at Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab is committed to guiding you through every step of your hand therapy journey.

What is your approach to occupational therapy?

The team at Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab takes a results-oriented approach to occupational therapy. Together, we’ll determine which tasks are the most important to you, set concrete goals, and then work to achieve them.

What sort of tasks and goals might you want to work toward? Ultimately, that’s up to you, although most patients seek help with activities and tasks that matter the most to them, such as work, self-care, recreation, and community and social interaction.

No matter your goals, our Fort Myers, FL team is here to help you develop or regain the skills, knowledge, and confidence you need to achieve them. We accomplish this through two steps:

  1. A comprehensive assessment to identify your strengths, limitations, and needs
  2. A personalized treatment plan informed by cutting-edge treatment options

Our approach to occupational therapy uses evidence-based practices and pulls from the latest research. We employ various techniques, exercises, and modalities to improve your function and develop strategies and tools to overcome any barriers you may face. We want to help you maintain progress and achieve your goals over time.

In addition, we can also work closely with your family members, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that your needs and goals are met and that you receive the best possible care and support.

What should I do to prepare for my first appointment?

We’re dedicated to ensuring your experience at our Fort Myers, FL hand therapy clinic is as smooth and hassle-free as possible. To help you prepare for your first visit, read over this list of essential items and information, all of which will help maximize your time during your initial visit:

  • If you’re using insurance, please have your insurance information available when you call us to schedule your appointment.
  • Complete our online patient forms, print them out, and bring them to your appointment. If you’re unable to do so or lack access to a printer/computer, please arrive early to complete these forms at our office.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment to finalize any remaining paperwork and ensure a timely start to your evaluation.
  • Wear comfortable clothing that provides easy access to the areas requiring treatment.
  • Bring your insurance information (we will make a copy of your card) if you plan to use insurance for your treatment.
  • Provide any relevant referrals, prescriptions, and test results from your referring physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.
  • Regarding automobile accidents or worker’s compensation claims, please bring the contact information for your case manager or insurance adjuster and the claim number.

At Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab , we are committed to delivering exceptional care and support throughout your hand therapy journey.

We look forward to welcoming you to our clinic!

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

We understand that sometimes circumstances make attending your scheduled appointment difficult or impossible. In the event of illness or an emergency, please notify our clinic at least 24 hours before your appointment time to avoid any inconvenience.

Please note that a non-refundable charge of fifty dollars will be applied to missed appointments that have not been rescheduled at least 24 hours in advance.

At Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab , we want to accommodate all our patients while maintaining a smooth and efficient schedule. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

What is adaptive equipment, and how is it used in occupational therapy?

One of the most significant ways our occupational therapists can help you maintain your mobility and independence is by using assistive devices, mobility aids, and environmental modifications.

Depending on your exact needs, our hand therapists might use one or more of the following pieces of adaptive equipment:

  • Mobility aids: Wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and crutches to help you more easily get around.
  • Dressing aids: Button hooks, long-handled shoehorns, dressing sticks, sock aids, and elastic shoelaces to facilitate independent dressing.
  • Eating utensils: Built-up handles, weighted utensils, plate guards, non-slip placemats, and adapted cups to assist with feeding and meal preparation.
  • Writing aids: Pen grips, weighted pens, and writing splints to improve handwriting and fine motor control.
  • Adaptive computer equipment: Large print keyboards, speech recognition software, trackball mice, and screen magnifiers to support computer use.
  • Reachers and grabbers: Extending tools to help you pick up items without bending or stretching.
  • Adaptive seating: Ergonomic chairs, cushions, and positioning devices to promote proper posture and comfort.
  • Fine motor aids: Hand therapy tools, such as therapy putty, hand exercisers, and grip strengtheners, to improve hand function and dexterity.

Can I go to any occupational therapists I choose?

As a patient, you can choose the occupational therapy clinic that best meets your needs and goals. This is known as the “Patient’s Bill of Rights,” a set of guidelines that outlines your rights and responsibilities as a patient.

It’s essential to choose a clinic with licensed and experienced occupational therapists specializing in your condition or injury. You may also want to consider location, hours of operation, and insurance coverage when choosing a clinic.

At Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab , we are committed to upholding the Patient’s Bill of Rights and providing high-quality, results-oriented care that meets your individual needs and goals. We believe in empowering our patients to participate actively in their treatment and decision-making process.

Our Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab occupational therapists keep up to date with the latest research and technology to ensure you’re receiving the best possible care. We’ll work closely with you and your healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that reflects your unique situation and goals.

Whether recovering from an injury or managing a chronic condition, occupational therapy can help you achieve your goals and take the first step toward improving your quality of life.

How can occupational therapy help me?

Occupational therapy can help anyone struggling to engage in activities that are meaningful and necessary to them. Most patients have physical or developmental challenges that can profoundly impact their everyday function and independence.

Our occupational therapist can help people with wide-ranging conditions. Here are some common conditions our upper extremity occupational therapists can help address:

  • Stroke
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Chronic pain conditions
  • Work-related injuries and conditions
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Amputations
  • Arthritis
  • Chronic pain
  • Tendon injury
  • Burns
  • Wound care
  • Coordination and dexterity limitations

Our Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab occupational therapists use a variety of evidence-based approaches to help you achieve your goals.

If you struggle with mobility, we’ll show you scientifically proven exercises to improve your strength, mobility, and coordination.

Our therapists are also highly experienced at identifying the most effective adaptive equipment, environmental modifications to improve accessibility, and self-care training to improve independence with daily activities.

Finally, we can help you learn to set specific, realistic goals that address both your condition and the tasks that matter most to you. Our scientifically-backed treatment approaches are tailored to meet your needs, whatever they may be.

At Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab , we want you to live a fulfilling and independent life, regardless of your particular circumstances. Our expert hand therapists are here to help you achieve precisely that.

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