Occupation-based hand therapy in South Africa: challenges and opportunities

Abstract

Occupation-based hand therapy (OBHT) is an approach to practice that integrates multiple frames of reference, while remaining rooted in an occupational therapy perspective. There are a number of benefits and challenges that have been recognised in hand therapy settings. The use of an occupation-based approach in the field of hand therapy is of interest to all occupational therapists practising in this field. This commentary explores the challenges and opportunities of OBHT as an approach in the assessment and treatment of clients with hand conditions in the South African context. The authors describe OBHT, explore the barriers in practice and propose guidelines for such an approach in our context. Recommendations are made to enhance the understanding and practice of an OBHT approach in everyday hand therapy practice within South Africa. Key words: Occupation-Based Hand Therapy, Client Centred practice