Think about all of the basic tasks you do without even thinking: brushing hair, writing a grocery list, tying shoes, washing dishes or even lifting a fork or knife.

Then imagine not being able to do these tasks by yourself.

That is where Grabiela Urrutia was just months ago. Grabiela needed surgery to repair ruptured tendons, a distal radius fracture and a compound fracture in her dominant right hand, as well as carpal tunnel problems.

She had a tendon transfer from her index finger to her thumb, had two bones in her hand repaired and underwent an open carpal tunnel release surgery. These surgeries laid the ground work for Grabiela to begin her recovery.

Post-surgery, Occupational Therapist and Certified Hand Therapist Jiansan Ding at the Charles M. Magistro Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Center at Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center (PVHMC) started working with Grabiela to bring back the flexibility and strength into her hands.

The occupational therapy sessions with Ding and assistant Kevin Mai targeted regaining flexibility and movement in her hands. The work incorporated cutting edge exercises that combined passive and active range of motion exercises.

After weeks of working on her flexibility, they also incorporated strength exercises.

The process is not easy and takes patience and commitment from both the therapist and the patient. With only three months of therapy completed, Grabiela has already made significant improvements. She is able to feed herself, write, brush her teeth and even paint again.

“The people at PVHMC have not only helped me heal physically, but also emotionally,” she said. “At PVHMC you are not alone; you are brought into the family.”

If you or a loved one is suffering from hand or joint problems, do not wait to get help. Start living the life you want and enjoying the little things in life, because the little things matter.

Call (909) 865-9810 for more information about Occupational Therapy services at PVHMC.

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