Telehealth in Hand Therapy Practice: Indian vs Global Scenario

Nivedita Yogesh Mane

Abstract: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the shift from in-person therapy sessions to telehealth posed both challenges and opportunities for occupational therapy, especially in hand therapy. Parents and patients initially doubted the efficacy of virtual therapy, but consistent engagement demonstrated its potential benefits. Teletherapy required not only specific hand skills but also adaptability, as therapists guided patients through exercises for fine motor skills, muscle strengthening, and sensory re-education using accessible household items. Despite the absence of hands-on support, teletherapy proved effective, particularly in encouraging independence and improving daily life functions. Although obstacles, such as reliable self-assessment tools, limited initial progress, teletherapy's flexibility provided new possibilities in rehabilitative care. A hybrid approach combining virtual and physical sessions could further enhance this model, improving accessibility while fostering the independence of patients in their daily routines.

Keywords: teletherapy, hand therapy, telehealth, occupational therapy, COVID-19