Introduction

The flexor tendons of the hand are essential for complex hand function. Injuries to these tendons may be caused by open cuts, crush injuries, degloving injuries and also by sudden forced extension of the fingers or thumb resulting in an injury where the tendon is pulled away from the bone. Flexor tendon injuries are relatively common and the incidence is higher in males and in people aged 20 - 29 years. These injuries are often managed with surgery and rehabilitation interventions after surgical repair are key to successful outcomes. Therapists require a good understanding of the anatomy of the hand and also the evidence base supporting appropriate rehabilitation following surgery in order to provide optimum management for patients with flexor tendon injuries.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• identify the three main tendons involved in flexion in the hand
• explain the structure and function of the pulley system in the hand
• describe the specific flexor tendon that may be damaged in a patient with a hand injury
• design an appropriate management strategy for the first 12 weeks after a flexor tendon repair
• Identify five red flags that therapists need to be aware of when treating patients with flexor tendon injuries

Target audience

This course is aimed at Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy clinicians, students and assistants. Other interested professionals such as athletic trainers, occupational therapists, nurses or medical doctors interested in this subject are also invited to participate.

Practicalities

• Availability - this course is online and can be completed on your own schedule.
• Hours of Learning - No deadlines are applied to this course and it can be started and completed in your own time according to your personal schedule. We expect the required elements to take around 1.5-2 hours depending on your schedule and learning style. Additionally there are many optional resources provided and if you choose to review these the course could take longer to complete.
• Types of Activities - This course includes instructional and/or practical videos, reading activities, AI supported learning activities, reflection, evaluation forms, a quiz and additional resources.
• Certificates - At the end of the course, when you have completed all of the required elements, you will be able to download a certificate of completion and 1.7 Plus points will be added to your personalised learning dashboard.

Instructor financial and non-financial disclosures

No relevant relationships disclosed by instructor.

Accessibility and Non-Discrimination Policy

Physiopedia Plus is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all participants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, sex, disability, military status, sexual orientation or age in any aspect of our continuing education services. We are dedicated to ensuring that all learners can fully participate in our programmes. Participants who require accommodations or have special needs are encouraged to contact us with details so that we can make all reasonable efforts to meet these requirements.