Sol Physical Therapy

Sol Physical Therapy
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Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy (OT) is defined as a form of treatment for those recuperating from physical or mental illness that encourages rehabilitation through the performance of activities required in daily life. While physical therapy helps patients cope with pain, increase range of motion, improve endurance, and develop gross motor skills, occupational therapy focuses on how patients perform activities and roles that are most important to their daily lives.

The OT process starts with an evaluation to determine what the patient wants and needs to do, and how these activities are being impacted by their current condition. From there, the OT practitioner will put together an intervention plan to manage pain and swelling, train in the use of joint protection and energy conservation, and modify daily activities.

To learn more, be sure to check out Occupational Therapy & Me, a conversation with Stephanie Lendroth, OTD, OTR/L.
Handwriting Finger Splint
Custom orthoses for various ailments
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FAQs

The primary difference between the two fields is that physical therapy helps patients cope with pain, increase range of motion, improve endurance, and develop gross motor skills; occupational therapy focuses more on how patients perform activities and roles that are most important to their daily lives.

The OT process starts with an evaluation to determine what the patient wants and needs to do, and how these activities are being affected by arthritis. From there, the OT practitioner will put together an intervention plan, which may include:

  • Pain management with physical agent modalities (e.g. heat, cold);
  • Techniques to manage swelling, including elevation, compression, exercise and splinting;
  • Training in the use of joint protection and energy conservation techniques;
  • Activity modifications in home, work and school settings

Custom splints can be used to immobilize, mobilize, restrict, support, or protect a body part. Our OTs are trained to make a variety of finger, hand and wrist splints that are customized for each condition and individual.

Common diagnoses that our therapists make custom orthoses for include:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Wrist sprain
  • Wrist clicking
  • Carpal instability
  • Thumb arthritis
  • Trigger finger
  • Mallet finger

Providers

Rachel Locke, OTR/L, CHT, C/NDT
Occupational Therapist

Rachel graduated with a master’s degree in occupational therapy from Barry University, after receiving a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University. Rachel is a certified hand therapist (CHT), holding advanced knowledge and extensive training in shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand-specific rehabilitation. Rachel is proficient in splinting the upper quarter to facilitate healing post-surgery as well as to reduce pain and improve function in the non-surgical upper limb.

In addition to upper extremity orthopedic specialty, Rachel is certified in neuro-developmental treatment, a treatment approach specific to rehabilitating the upper limb post brain injury/stroke. Rachel believes the upper extremities provide a level of independence that is directly related to quality of life. Rachel enjoys helping her patients restore function and reduce pain so they can participate in activities that are meaningful.

Outside of practicing occupational therapy, Rachel enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter and two dogs.

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To learn about our other practitioners, go to Our Team page.

Stephanie Lendroth, OTD, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist

Stephanie is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy, with years of experience in hand therapy in both Tucson and Phoenix. She graduated with distinction from Northern Arizona University after receiving a bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut.

Outside of practicing occupational therapy, Stephanie enjoys spending time outdoors running and hiking. Being a New England native, Stephanie enjoys traveling home to visit family and eat authentic New Haven style pizza.

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To learn about our other practitioners, go to Our Team page.