Presented by: Linda Hodgkins, MS, OTR/L, CLT-LANA
Format: 45 minutes presentation, 15 minutes Q&A
Webinar Description: This webinar examines edema as a modifiable barrier to orthopedic recovery, with a focus on clinically relevant lymphatic physiology, timing, and decision‑making in hand therapy practice. Designed for Certified Hand Therapists, the session integrates current evidence with practical clinical reasoning to reframe how swelling is understood, anticipated, and supported across the course of recovery. Participants will explore why upper‑extremity edema behaves differently than lower‑extremity swelling, how early intervention influences outcomes, and how to confidently distinguish expected orthopedic edema from presentations that require referral. Emphasis is placed on scope‑appropriate strategies, including patient education, movement, positioning, and light compression, while clarifying when escalation of care is indicated. The goal is to equip clinicians with a clear framework for managing edema thoughtfully, safely, and effectively as part of comprehensive upper‑extremity rehabilitation.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, participants will:
1. Describe how persistent edema contributes to pain, stiffness, adhesions, and delayed functional recovery following upper extremity orthopedic injury or surgery.
2. Explain key lymphatic system principles that influence the development and resolution of orthopedic edema, including lymphatic overload and timing of intervention.
3. Identify common upper extremity orthopedic edema patterns and risk factors that warrant early intervention versus referral to a certified lymphedema therapist.
4. Apply evidence informed clinical reasoning strategies to support edema management in outpatient hand therapy practice.
CE Credit: 1.0 continuing education hours, or 0.10 CEUs
Pricing:
Members $35
Student Members $20
Non-Members $55
Student Non-Members $30
* The ASHT Webinar Committee conducts an audit of webinars to ensure that the content is keeping up with the latest science and research. Please note that this webinar may be updated in the future. At that time, the purchased webinar will no longer be available for view.
Recording Date: July 8, 2026