Patient guide · 4 min read
Your First Hand Therapy Appointment: What to Expect
March 10, 2026 · Deborah Austin, OTR, CHT
Knowing what happens in the first hour removes most of the anxiety about starting therapy. Here is exactly how a first visit runs.
Before you arrive
- Download and complete the new-patient intake packet so treatment can begin on day one.
- Bring your physician or surgeon referral and your insurance card.
- Bring your operative report or a note of the surgery date if you had a procedure.
- Wear or bring short sleeves, and bring any orthosis or brace you have been using.
The evaluation
The visit starts with your history: what happened, what hurts, what you cannot do yet, and what you need to get back to. Then come objective measurements — range of motion, grip and pinch strength, edema, sensation and scar condition. These numbers become the baseline your progress is measured against.
Treatment usually starts the same day
Most patients leave the first visit with something concrete: an orthosis molded to the hand, a written home program, edema management, and a clear explanation of the healing timeline for their specific injury or surgery.
Practical details
The office is at 2061 NW 2nd Ave, Suite 106 in Boca Raton, with step-free access and accessible parking directly in front of the entrance. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, by appointment only. Booking is by phone at 561-362-8757 — there is no online scheduling and no patient portal.
Frequently asked
- How long is the first appointment?
- Plan for about an hour. Evaluation, orthotic fabrication if needed, and your home program are all covered in that visit.
- Can I fill out the forms at the office?
- Yes, but completing the intake packet at home means more of your appointment goes to treatment instead of paperwork.
Talk with a Certified Hand Therapist
This article is general education, not medical advice. For your own hand, call the office.