APFSHT_SHTICON 2025 eSouvenir_V7_08.10.2025_Final.pdf

eSouvenir

11
th
to 13
th
September 2025

1

2

eSouvenir Table of Contents

S. No. Contents of eSouvenir Page
Number
1.

APFSHT & SHTI Welcome Note for the Congress / Conference 1
2.

Messages 2-11
3.

APFSHT Office Bearer & SHTI Office Bearers (Current & Past) 12-14
4.

10
th
Biennial APFSHT Congress / SHTICON’2025 Organizing Team 15
5.

10
th
Biennial APFSHT Congress / SHTICON’2025 Faculty Speakers 16-21
6.

Congress / Conference Brochure & Flyers and Link to Promotional Videos 22-28
7.

Scientific Program Schedule & Award Categories 29-33
8.

Abstracts: Faculty Presentations, Oral Papers, ePoster Papers, Mini Movies 34-62
9.

Abstracts: Innovative Technology and Essays 62-75
10.

Membership Information of the Society for Hand Therapy, India 76
11.

Past Conference (SHTICON) Information 77
12.

Memories of Past Conferences: Picture Gallery 78-87
13.

India’s Representation at IFSSH - IFSHT 2025 Triennial Congress 88
14.

SHTI Social Media Profiles and Resources 89-92
15.

Sponsors

93-99
16.

APFSHT Congress / SHTICON’2025 Conference Report and Award Winners 100-109
17.

Acknowledgement & Feedback 110-112
APFSHT: Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy; SHTI: Society for Hand Therapy, India
IFSHT: The International Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy; IFSSH: International Federation of Societies
for Surgery of the Hand; ISSH: Indian Society for Surgery of the Hand

Page 1

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025
APFSHT & SHTI Welcome Note for the Congress / Conference

On behalf of the entire enthusiastic organizing committee of the 10
th
Biennial Congress of the Asia
Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT) and the 12
th
annual national conference
of the Society for Hand Therapy, India, viz. SHTICON’2025, we welcome all faculty and delegates, in a
vibrant city of Mumbai, the capital city of the state of Maharashtra, and the financial and commercial
capital of India.

Mumbai is India’s most-populous city, and it is one of the largest and most densely populated urban
areas in the world. It took its name from the local goddess Mumba, a form of Parvati, the consort of
Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism, whose temple once stood in what is now the south
eastern section of the city. It became known as Bombay during the British colonial period, the name
possibly an Anglicized corruption of Mumbai or perhaps of Bom Baim - “Good Harbour”, apparently
a Portuguese name for the locale. The name Mumbai was officially reinstated in 1995, even though
Bombay remained in common usage, for a quite long period thereafter.
Mumbai is one of the predominant port cities in the country. Mumbai has been recognized as one of
the world's best cities, securing the 49
th
position in Time Out's 2025 list of the world’s 50 best cities.
The ranking is based on factors like culture, food, affordability, and livability, as determined by a
survey of locals. Mumbai has earned global recognition for its vibrant food culture, securing the 5
th

position in Taste Atlas's "100 Best Food Cities in the World." This accolade reflects the city's culinary
richness and its iconic dishes.
The conference venue: The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake hotel is located on the banks of Powai Lake,
and is a Marriott hotel that offers comfortable stay.
The weather in Mumbai in September shall be of high heat and humidity with 30°C maximum day
temperature and 25°C minimum night-time temperature with some rainfall.
In September, Mumbai offers a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions. Iconic landmarks like the
Gateway of India and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, scenic drives along Marine Drive and the
Bandra-Worli Sea Link, and spiritual sites like Shree Siddhivinayak Temple, ISKCON Temple are
popular choices. You can enjoy the lively atmosphere of Juhu Beach, or delve into the city's history at
the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya. Mumbai Film City is a popular destination for
Bollywood enthusiasts, offering tours and insights into film production and many more places to
visit…!
Let us all network during this grand academic event, nurture our younger generations with spice of
knowledge and wisdom, take forward the torch of indispensable guidance from our older generation
as well as delegates across country and from overseas, to greater heights. Let us all create digital
memories (photos) with friends, colleagues, and stalwarts of hand therapy, to cherish them forever.
We welcome one and all, with gratitude and warm regards on behalf of
The Entire Organizing Team

Page 2

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

“Hand Therapy is a Therapist's Artistry”
~ Dr. Shovan Saha, Adl. Professor (Occupational Therapy), Manipal, Karnataka, India

Messages

Page 3

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Message from the President, APFSHT

Dear Esteemed Colleagues and Friends,
It is my great honour to extend warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to the Society for Hand
Therapy, India, as they prepare to host the APFSHT 2025 Congress in conjunction with the APFSSH
& APWA 2025 Congress.
The APFSHT 2025 Congress promises to be an exceptional platform for knowledge exchange,
professional development, and networking. It will bring together the brightest minds and most
dedicated practitioners in our field, facilitating discussions that will shape the future of hand
therapy in our region and beyond.
On behalf of APFSHT, I encourage all member societies and individual therapists to participate
actively in this landmark event. Your presence and contributions will enrich the congress and
strengthen our professional community.
I extend my sincere appreciation to the organizing committee for their tireless efforts in preparing
for this congress. Their dedication ensures that this event will be a resounding success and a catalyst
for progress in our field.
Let us come together in Mumbai to share our knowledge, learn from one another, and forge new
partnerships that will elevate the practice of hand therapy across the Asia-Pacific region.
Wishing you all a highly successful and inspiring APSHT 2025 Congress!

Warm Regards
Kris Tong Duan Lian, BSc (Occupational Therapy), MSc (Advanced Clinical Practice)
President, Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)

Page 4

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Message from the President
International Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (IFSHT)

Page 5

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Message from the President, SHTI
Organizing Chairman of APFSHT Congress & SHTICON’2025

Greetings
from the Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)
We are happy to share that SHTI will co-host the 10
th
Biennial Congress of the Asia Pacific Federation
of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT) and the 14
th
Biennial Congress of the Asia Pacific Federation
of Societies for Surgery of the Hand (APFSSH), which will be held from 10
th
to 13
th
September, 2025,
at The Westin Powai, Mumbai. Society for Hand Therapy, India, will also be hosting its 12
th
National
Conference.
The international conference will be hosted in the city of Mumbai, known as "the city that never
sleeps," is also India's financial capital and has convenient connections to major cities and
destinations worldwide, thus making your travel comfortable.
The 10
th
edition of this conference holds great symbolism; it will be a great opportunity to celebrate
the decade-long pioneering efforts of eminent professionals who visioned and aspired to unify the
practice of hand therapy and the Practitioner in the Asia-Pacific region.
It will be a melting pot of a wide range of perspectives, experience, evidence, and knowledge, all
revolving around one of the most important anatomical structures, that is the ‘Hand & Upper-
Extremity’, from surgery to rehabilitative management. It will be a great platform for all therapists
to discuss hand with physical, neurological, and birth-related conditions.
We look forward to hosting the fraternity of hand therapists (occupational therapists/ physical
therapists) from India and the entire Asia Pacific region to this five-star international conference
experience.

Dr. Shovan Saha, BOT, MOT, PhD, Fellow ACOT (AIOTA)
President, SHTI & Organizing Chairman APFSHT Congress & SHTICON’2025

“Hand is an Enigma, Treasure It”
~ Dr. Shovan Saha, Adl. Professor (Occupational Therapy), Manipal, Karnataka, India

Page 6

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Message from the Vice President, SHTI
eSouvenir Incharge of APFSHT Congress & SHTICON’2025

I seize this opportunity in my capacity of the Vice President of the SHTI, to congratulate the entire
organizing team of the 10
th
Biennial Congress of the Asian Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand
Therapists (APFSHT) and the 12
th
Annual National Conference of the Society for Hand Therapy, India
(SHTI) that shall be hosted in collaboration with the congress/conference of the hand surgeon’s
associations viz. APFSSH, APWA and ISSH, to be held from 11
th
to 13
th
September, 2025, in Mumbai,
India.
I have been associated with the SHTI since the year 2008 as a member, since the year 2014 as a faculty
and since the year 2015 to date in the executive committee of the SHTI. I have witnessed a gradual
progress and growth in the annual events hosted by the SHTI with due gratitude to the surgeon’s
association for collaborative efforts and for providing a larger platform for annual academic events
and also the opportunity to network with the international surgeon and therapists’ associations.
This year being the 12
th
year of our annual conference of the SHTI and the 1
st
opportunity to host the
10
th
biennial congress of the Asian-Pacific Federation of Societies for the Hand Therapists, it gives us
an immense pleasure and enthusiasm to display our proactive efforts for the successful conduct of
the academic feast.
The conference theme viz. “Progress with Purpose” reminds us, as occupational therapists, and hand
therapists, that “purpose” is the core of all therapeutic activities in order to progress in recovery
following injury and illness. I am happy to know that “purpose” that was & is the core domain of
occupational therapy professionals since the inception of the profession, is gradually acknowledged
as an essential component by all the healthcare professionals as well as by WHO.
We welcome all the hand therapists from India and across the globe for proactively participating in
this international academic platform.
Best Regards
Ms. Punita V. Solanki, BSc OT, MSc OT, ADCR, Fellow ACOT (AIOTA)
Vice President, SHTI & eSouvenir Incharge, APFSHT Congress & SHTICON’2025

Page 7

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Message from the President of ISSH
Organising Chairman of the APFSSH, APFSHT, APWA Congress & ISSHCON 2025

Dear Colleagues and Friends in Hand Therapy
On behalf of the Indian Society for Surgery of the Hand (ISSH) and the Organising Committee of the
APFSSH–APFSHT–APWA 2025 Congress, it is my great pleasure to extend a warm invitation to all
members of the Asian Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapists (APFSHT)and all hand
therapists worldwide.
The upcoming congress, to be held at the scenic Westin Powai Lake in Mumbai from 10
th
to 13
th

September, 2025, promises to be an enriching convergence of knowledge, skills, and collaborative
spirit. This unique joint meeting of surgeons, therapists, and allied professionals is built around the
theme “Progress with Purpose” a theme that resonates deeply with the shared mission of restoring
function, alleviating pain, and improving the lives of our patients.
Hand therapy plays a pivotal role in the continuum of care, turning surgical outcomes into real
functional recovery. This congress will provide you with an outstanding scientific programme curated
by leaders in our field, practical workshops, and interactive sessions to address the latest advances
and innovations in hand therapy & rehabilitation science. More importantly, it will create
opportunities to connect across disciplines, cultures, and countries; strengthening the bonds that
make our professional community truly global.
We are also committed to showcasing the vibrant culture and warmth of India, ensuring that your
experience in Mumbai will be as memorable outside the lecture halls as within them.
I encourage every hand therapist to join us, contribute your expertise, and take back not just
knowledge, but inspiration.
We look forward to welcoming you to Mumbai in September 2025.

Warm Regards
Dr. Pankaj N. Ahire, MS Orthopaedics (Hand Surgeon)
President, ISSH & Organising Chairman, APFSSH–APFSHT–APWA Congress & ISSHCON 2025

Page 8

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Message from the Secretary, SHTI
Chairperson, Scientific Committee of APFSHT Congress & SHTICON’2025

Welcome All, Dear Hand Therapists and Friends
We're thrilled to invite you to, Biennial Congress of the Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand
Therapy, alongside the 12th Annual National Conference of the Society for Hand Therapy, India, taking
place in Mumbai, fondly known as Amchi Mumbai. This vibrant city, known for its eclectic mix of cultures,
rich history, and cosmopolitan spirit, will provide a unique backdrop for our conference.
As a specialized field, hand therapy has seen significant advancements in recent years, with a growing
emphasis on evidence-based practice and innovative interventions.
Hand therapy is gaining recognition, with an increasing demand for skilled professionals who can provide
high-quality care. Current trends include the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, such as virtual reality
and robotics, to enhance rehabilitation outcomes. Additionally, there is a growing focus on preventive
care, with initiatives aimed at promoting hand health and preventing injuries.
This year's theme, "Progress with Purpose," aligns perfectly with the World Health Organization's (WHO)
principles of sustainability, emphasizing the importance of balancing current needs with future well-
being. As the Scientific Committee, we worked tirelessly to curate an enriching scientific experience that
showcases cutting-edge research and innovation in sustainable healthcare practices.
The conference will feature a range of national and international events, including keynote sessions,
workshops, and poster presentations, providing a platform for delegates to share knowledge, expertise,
and best practices in promoting sustainable health outcomes. The Society of Hand Therapy, India has been
a driving force in promoting hand therapy since 2009, and we're excited to host this conference, which
promises to be an unforgettable experience. This event will bring together professionals from
Physiotherapy and Occupational therapy backgrounds, offering a unique opportunity to showcase
research work, network, and learn from each other. Our best wishes to all presenters and looking forward
to meeting you all on positive note.
With Warm Regards and Best Wishes
Dr. Tejashree Ajit Dabholkar, MPT, PhD, FAIMER Fellow
Chairperson, Scientific Committee, APFSHT Congress & SHTICON’2025
Secretary, Society for Hand Therapy, India

Page 9

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Message from the Organizing Secretary of APFSHT Congress & SHTICON’2025
Incharge Treasurer & Co-Opted EC Member, SHTI

Dear Esteemed Delegates
It is with immense privilege, honour, and pride that I welcome you to the 10
th
Biennial Congress of
the Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT) in conjunction with the 12
th

Annual National Conference of the Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)
As the Organising Secretary of APFSHT-SHTICON 2025, I am delighted to extend my warmest
greetings to all national and international delegates from across the globe. This momentous event
promises to be one of a kind; a ground breaking gathering in the world of health practices, bringing
together experts, pioneers, and enthusiasts dedicated to advancing hand surgery, hand therapy and
rehabilitation science, all under one roof.
The theme of the conference, "Progress with Purpose," aptly reflects our collective mission and
vision. It underscores the relentless efforts of leaders from the fields of hand surgery and hand
therapy to strengthen our communities, build a strong footprint both nationally and internationally,
and elevate the standards of care. Our shared goal is to benefit individuals with compromised or
dysfunctional hands, ultimately improving their quality of life.
APFSHT - SHTICON 2025, scheduled to take place at the luxurious Westin Mumbai, offers a unique
platform to learn from industry leaders, engage in meaningful discussions, expand your professional
network, and find inspiration amidst the vibrant tapestry of Mumbai, a city celebrated for its rich
heritage and cosmopolitan culture, a city of dreams that exemplifies the perfect blend of growth,
collaboration, and inspiration
I wish all participating delegates, an enriching experience at this exciting gathering where tradition
meets innovation. Together, let us foster collaboration, embrace diverse perspectives, and shape the
future of our field.
Looking forward to meeting you

Ms. Yogita P. Shendge, BOT, MOT, LLB
Organising Secretary, APFSHT Congress & SHTICON’2025

Page 10

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Message from the President of the All India Occupational Therapists’
Association (AIOTA)

It gives me immense pleasure to extend my warm greetings to the 10
th
Biennial Congress of the Asian
Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapists (APFSHT) being hosted in conjunction with the
12
th
Annual National Conference of the Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI) from 11
th
to 13
th

September, 2025, in Mumbai.
This landmark gathering of distinguished professionals, researchers, and clinicians from across the
globe provides a unique platform for knowledge exchange, collaborative learning, and advancement
in the field of hand therapy. The conference is a testament to the commitment of SHTI towards
fostering excellence in clinical practice, research, and education, while strengthening India’s
contribution to the global rehabilitation community.
I am confident that this event will not only enrich professional expertise but also inspire innovative
approaches to patient care, rehabilitation, and quality of life. May this congress mark yet another
milestone in promoting scientific growth, cultural exchange, and professional solidarity across the
Asia-Pacific region.
I convey my heartfelt best wishes for the grand success of this prestigious international conference
and look forward to the impactful contributions it will bring to the discipline of hand therapy.

Dr. Pankaj Bajpai, MOT, PGDDRM, MAIOTA
President, AIOTA
Executive Chairman, ACOT; WFOT Delegate
Editor-in-Chief, The Indian Journal of Occupational Therapy (IJOT)

Page 11

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Message from the President of the Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP)

It gives me immense pleasure to extend my warm greetings to all the distinguished delegates,
organizers, and participants of SHTICON 2025.
This conference represents an important platform for sharing knowledge, research, and innovations
that advance the frontiers of physiotherapy and rehabilitation sciences. At a time when healthcare is
rapidly evolving, such gatherings provide the opportunity to reflect on evidence-based practices,
foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and empower professionals to serve society with greater
impact.
As the President of the Indian Association of Physiotherapists, I am proud to see our profession
continuing to take leadership in shaping holistic, patient-centered care. Conferences like SHTICON
bring together the wisdom of experienced practitioners, the energy of young professionals, and the
curiosity of researchers - creating a rich environment for growth and inspiration.
I congratulate the organizers for their dedication in creating this academic and professional forum. I
am confident that SHTICON 2025 will spark meaningful discussions, strengthen networks, and pave
the way for new milestones in physiotherapy education, research, and clinical practice.
I wish the conference great success and all participants a truly enriching experience.

Prof. Dr. Sanjiv Kumar Jha, Masters in Physiotherapy (Sports)
President, Indian Association of Physiotherapists

Page 12

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

APFSHT Office Bearer

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Associated Organization to the International Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (IFSHT)

“Be Empathetic, Positive, Creative and Therapeutic”
~ Josephine Wong, Occupational Therapist & Hand Therapist, Hong Kong

PRESIDENT APFSHT Kris Tong Duan Lian
BSc (Occupational Therapy), MSc (Advanced Clinical Practice)
Affiliation: Principal Occupational Therapist, Rehabilitation, National University
Hospital
5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Level 1, Singapore 119074
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.nuh.com.sg

Page 13

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Society for Hand Therapy, India: Office Bearers (4
th Tenure: 2025 to 2029)

PRESIDENT SHTI & ACADEMIC CHAIR IFSHT (2022-2025) Dr. Shovan Saha
BSc (OT), MSc (OT) Hand Rehabilitation, PhD, Fellow of ACOT, AIOTA
Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, Manipal College of Health Professions, MAHE, Manipal-
576104, Karnataka, India
Mobile: +91-9880059426  Email: [email protected]
Website: https://manipal.edu/

VICE PRESIDENT Punita Vasant Solanki
BSc (OT), MSc (OT) Orthopaedic Conditions, ADCR, Fellow of ACOT, AIOTA
Freelance Occupational Therapist; Editor, The Indian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Mumbai, India
Mobile: +91-9820621352 and +91-9167180215
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.orthorehab.in

SECRETARY Dr. Tejashree Ajit Dabholkar
BPT, MPTh (Musculoskeletal Sciences), PhD, FAIMER Fellow
Professor (Musculoskeletal PT), Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM’S Narsee Monjee Institute of
Management Studies, Vile Parle West, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Mobile: +91-9167047445  Email: [email protected]
Website: https://science.nmims.edu/academics

INCHARGE TREASURER & CO-OPTED EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER Yogita Pankaj Shendge
BOT, MOTh (Musculoskeletal Sciences), LLB
Founder Proprietor, Your Therapist, Chembur, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Mobile: +91-9820794435
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.yourtherapist.co.in

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER Jose Mary Sangeetha X
BOT, MOTh (Neurosciences), Fellowship in Advanced OT (Musculoskeletal, Hand & Ergonomics: ACOT, AIOTA)
Occupational Therapist, JIPMER, Government of India, Puducherry, India
Mobile: +91-9176126830
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.jipmer.edu.in

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER Jyotsna Rupesh Bankhele (nee Gaikwad)
BOT, MOTh (Neurosciences), PhD Scholar
Occupational Therapist, OTSC, LTMMC &LTMGH, Sion, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Mobile: +91-9821211079
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.ltmgh.com/

CO-OPTED EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER Dr. Shilpshree Prashant Palsule
BSc (OT), MSc (OT) (Orthopaedic Conditions), PhD, Fellow of ACOT, AIOTA
Assistant Professor (Occupational Therapy), OTSC, SGSMC & KEMH, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Mobile: +91-9987798660
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.kem.edu/occupational-therapy

ADVISORY BOARD
Shrikant Chinchalkar, MThO, OTR, CHT. Ontario, Canada

Page 14

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Society for Hand Therapy, India: Past Office Bearers

1
st Tenure: 2008 to 2014

President: Hemant P.
Nandgaonkar
Vice President: Shovan Saha
Secretary: Amol Sangekar
Joint Secretary: Prabhakar
Chavan
Treasurer: Mugdha Wagh
Shaan
Joint Treasurer: Shashikant
Chandanshive
EC Members
Amit More, Rupali Borkar
Priya Tawde, Yogesh Advani
Savita Savardekar
Shalaka Nandgaonkar
Shriharsh J. Jahagirdar
Advisory Board
Shrikant Chinchalkar
Kavita P. Mulgaonkar
Snehal P. Desai

2
nd Tenure: 2015 to 2019

President: Amol Sangekar
Vice President: Shovan Saha
Secretary: Suresh Mani
Joint Secretary: Prabhakar
Chavan
Treasurer: Mugdha Wagh
Shaan
EC Member
Punita V. Solanki
Co-Opted EC Member
Ganesh Pande
Ex-Officio Member: Hemant
P. Nandgaonkar
Advisory Board
Shrikant Chinchalkar
Kavita P. Mulgaonkar
Snehal P. Desai

3
rd Tenure: 2020 to 2024

President: Shovan Saha
Secretary: Punta V. Solanki
Incharge Treasurer: Yogita
P. Shendge#
EC Members
Yogita P. Shendge#
Dr. Surendra Kumar Meena
Co-Opted EC Members
Shubhangi M. Lad
Dr. Tejashree A. Dabholkar
Advisory Board
Shrikant Chinchalkar
Vivek N. Kulkarni

Page 15

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

10
th Biennial APFSHT Congress / SHTICON’2025 Organizing Team

Page 16

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

10
th Biennial APFSHT Congress / SHTICON’2025 International Faculty Speakers

Shrikant J. Chinchalkar, MThO, BSc OT, OTR, CHT, OT Reg. (On)
Affiliation: Ex-Senior Hand Therapist, Roth-McFarlane Hand & Upper Limb
Centre, St. Joseph’s Health Centre in London, Ontario, Canada
Title of Presentation: 1. Keynote Address: Progress with Purpose
2. Workshop: Tips and Tricks of Dynamic Splinting & 3. Combined Session Title:
Stiff Finger: MCP/PIP: Hand Therapy Intervention

Marjolein Wind, MSc Occupational Therapy
Affiliation: Dutch Certified Hand Therapist, Hand & Wrist Centre, Amsterdam, The
Netherlands
Title of Presentation: Flexor Pollicis Longus: Rehabilitation & Outcomes
Zulfi Rahimtoola, MD FRCS PhD European Hand Diploma
Affiliation: Dutch Health Clinics, President Dutch Orthopaedic Hand and Wrist
Society
Title of Presentation: Injuries of the Hand and Wrist: A Quick Glance on the Pitch
Josephine Wong Man-Wah, MSc SMHS, MSc HC (OT)
Affiliation: Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic
University
Title of Presentation: 1. Rehabilitation of Hand Fractures in Hong Kong
2. Panellist: Panel Discussion: Hand Therapy Practice: Asia Pacific Perspective

Alpana Joshi, BThO, DROT, MS OT
Affiliation: PM&R Therapy Supervisor- Hand Clinic Assistant, Minnesota, USA
Title of Presentation: 1. Current Concepts of Rehabilitation of Radial Wrist Pain
2. Workshop: Lymphedema Management in Upper Limb
Arpita Dharia, OTD, OTR/L, CHT, CPAM, CFCE
Affiliation: Garden State Hand Therapy, NJ, USA
Title of Presentation: Return to Functional Capacity After Traumatic Hand Injury

Page 17

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Kris Tong Duan Lian, BSc (OT), MSc (Advanced Clinical Practice)
Affiliation: Principal Occupational Therapist, National University Hospital,
Singapore; President, APFSHT
Title of Presentation: 1. Pain Management in Hand Therapy: Teaching Patients
About Pain
2. Panellist: Panel Discussion: Hand Therapy Practice: Asia Pacific Perspective
Ho Wing Kelvin Fung, BPT, MPT, CHT
Affiliation: Lead Physiotherapist, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong
Title of Presentation: Thumb Osteoarthritis Management

Dr. Shamima Sitabkhan, OTR, CHT, OTD, CNS, MS ACN
Affiliation: Coordinator/Team Lead and Hand Therapist at Texas Health
Presbyterian Hospital, Texas
Title of Presentation: Progress Towards Function: Post Flexor Tendon Repair

Hsiao-Ju (Rita) Cheng
Affiliation: Singapore-ETH Centre
Title of Presentation: Rehabilitative and Assistive Technologies for Post-Stroke
Upper Limb Rehabilitation

Shannon Toh
Affiliation: Senior Occupational Therapist, NUH, Singapore
Title of Presentation: Upper Extremity Neurectomy Post Stroke

Dr. Pak-Cheong HO, Orthopaedics & Traumatology
Affiliation: Chief of Orthopaedics, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong
Title of Presentation: Combined Session Title: Stiff Wrist: Surgical
Intervention

Page 18

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

10
th Biennial APFSHT Congress / SHTICON’2025 National Faculty Speakers

Dr. Chaitanya Mudgal, MBBS, MS Orth, MCh Orth
Affiliation: Associate Professor (Orthopaedics) Harvard Medical School, Boston
Title of Presentation: Combined Session Title: Stiff Forearm: Surgical
Intervention

Ellen de Boer, OT, European & Dutch Certified Hand Therapist
Affiliation: Hand & Wrist Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Title of Presentation: Combined Session Title: Stiff Forearm: Hand Therapy
Intervention

Dr. (Prof.) S Raja Sabapathy, MS (Gen), M Ch (Plastic), DNB (Plastic), FRCS
(Edin), FAMS, Hon FRCS (Glasgow), Hon FRCS (Eng), Hon FACS, D Sc (Hon)
Affiliation: Chairman, Ganga Medical Centre and Hospital Pvt. Ltd., Coimbatore
Title of Presentation: 1. Combined Session Title: Stiff Finger: PIP/MCP:
Surgical Intervention. 2. Surgeons and Therapists: Working Together to Get
Good Outcomes in Mutilating Upper Limb Injuries

Dr. Shovan Saha, BSc OT, MSc OT, PhD (OT), Fellow ACOT
Affiliation: Associate Professor, Department of OT, MCHF, MAHE, Manipal,
Karnataka, India
Title of Presentation: 1. Rationale of Splinting in Spastic Upper Limb
2. Combined Session Title: Stiff Wrist: Hand Therapy Intervention
3. Panellist: Panel Discussion: Hand Therapy Practice: Asia Pacific Perspective

Page 19

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Chhaya Verma, PhD (PT)
Affiliation: Professor & Head, Physiotherapy School and Centre, TNMC & BYL
Nair Ch. Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Title of Presentation: 1. Keynote Address: Challenges, Innovation & Road
Ahead in Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injury Rehabilitation: An Indian Perspective
2. Moderator: Panel Discussion: Birth Brachial Plexus Palsy: Surgical Strategies
and Measures of Rehabilitation

Dr. Tejashree A. Dabholkar, BPT, MPTh, PhD, FAIMER Fellow
Affiliation: Professor (Musculoskeletal PT), SDSS, SVKM’S NMIMS, Vile Parle
West, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India; Secretary, SHTI
Title of Presentation: 1. About the Society for Hand Therapy, India
2. Proximal Stability: A Key for Distal Hand Functioning; An Overview
Deepali Kant, Consultant Prosthetist and Orthotist
Affiliation: Consultant Prosthetist and Orthotist
Title of Presentation: Technology and It's Use in Upper Extremity Prosthetic
Management

Gobinath K, BPT, MPTh, PhD,
Affiliation: Senior Physiotherapist, Ganga Medical Centre and Hospital,
Coimbatore
Title of Presentation: 1. Assessment of Capability and Patient Satisfaction After
Major Upper Extremity Replantation
2. Symposium: Burns Hand: Surgical & Rehabilitation Approaches
Ashok Ghodke, MBBS, DO, DBB
Affiliation: Professor & Unit Head, MGMH, Navi Mumbai
Title of Presentation: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Current
Consensus

Dr. Mukund Thatte, MBBS, MS General Surgery, MCh Plastic Surgery.
Affiliation: Senior Consultant, Bombay Hospital, Mumbai
Title of Presentation: Panellist: Panel Discussion: Birth Brachial Plexus Palsy:
Surgical Strategies and Measures of Rehabilitation

Page 20

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Meenu Narang Chadha, PT
Affiliation: Owner, Paediatric Physiotherapy Clinic, Surat
Title of Presentation: Panellist: Panel Discussion: Birth Brachial Plexus
Palsy: Surgical Strategies and Measures of Rehabilitation

Pragyan Singh, MOT, PhD
Affiliation: Lecturer, OT, SVNIRTAR, Cuttack, Odisha
Title of Presentation: Panellist: Panel Discussion: Birth Brachial Plexus
Palsy: Surgical Strategies and Measures of Rehabilitation

Dr. Vinita Puri, MCh Plastic Surgery
Affiliation: Head, Plastic Surgery, SGSMC & KEMH, Mumbai
Title of Presentation: Symposium: Burns Hand: Surgical & Rehabilitation
Approaches
Rashmi Yeradkar, MSc OT
Affiliation: Head, Occupational Therapy, LTMMC & LTMGH, Sion, Mumbai
Title of Presentation: Symposium: Burns Hand: Surgical & Rehabilitation
Approaches

Jyotsna R. Bankhele, MOT, PhD Scholar
Affiliation: Occupational Therapy, LTMMC & LTMGH, Sion, Mumbai
Title of Presentation: The Aging Hand: Reclaiming Function through
Purposeful Occupational Therapy

Yogita P. Shendge, MOT, LLB
Affiliation: Founder Proprietor, Your Therapist, Chembur, Mumbai; Co-Opted
EC Member & Incharge Treasurer, SHTI
Title of Presentation: Unlocking the Hand Therapy Path - A Journey of
Progress with Purpose

Page 21

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

“Hand Therapy is Where Science Meets the Art of Touch & Sense of Recreation”
~Shrikant Chinchalkar, Occupational Therapist & Hand Therapist, Ontario, Canada

“Purpose: is the Spirit of Human Life, Fundamental to Occupational Therapy Practice,
Meaningful Expression & Product of Brain, Expressed by means of Creative Hands, Facilitated by Hand
Therapists during Hand Rehabilitation”
~Punita V. Solanki, Occupational Therapist & Hand Therapist, Mumbai, India

“Hand Mirrors the Mind”
~ Dr. Shovan Saha, Adl. Professor (Occupational Therapy), Manipal, Karnataka, India

“Hands are Tools to Shape One's Dreams, Hence Restoring their Function is a Sacred Responsibility.”
~ Disha Save, Occupational Therapist, Mumbai, India

Jose Mary Sangeetha X, MOT, PhD Scholar
Affiliation: Occupational Therapist, JIPMER, Government of India,
Puducherry,
Title of Presentation: Plaster of Paris: Completely Forgotten Hand Splinting
Material? OR Still in Practice?

Punita Vasant Solanki, BSc OT, MSc OT, ADCR, Fellow ACOT
Affiliation: Freelance Occupational Therapist, Mumbai; Vice President, SHTI &
Editor, The Indian Journal of Occupational Therapy
Title of Presentation: Moderator: Panel Discussion: Hand Therapy
Practice: Asia Pacific Perspective

Page 22

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Congress / Conference Brochure & Flyers

Page 23

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Page 24

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Page 25

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

APFSHT & SHTICON’2025 Brochure Courtesy Yogita P. Shendge

Page 26

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

APFSHT & SHTICON’2025 Flyer Designed by Jose Mary Sangeetha X

Page 27

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

APFSHT & SHTICON’2025 Flyer Courtesy Dr. Shovan Saha

Page 28

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Congress / Conference Promotional Videos Links

1. Promotional Video by Dr. Shovan Saha (Creatives by Jose Mary Sangeetha X)
SHTI LinkedIn Group
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7332737186615717888?utm_source=share
&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAFqPlMBH_yA604F2MzkoQ_MUS2XLIVCoNg

Also Available at SHTI Instagram Profile: https://www.instagram.com/p/DNfwf_bhpA6/

2. Promotional Video of National and International Faculty (Courtesy: Yogita P. Shendge)
SHTI Facebook Group
https://www.facebook.com/yogita.chhawchhria/videos/3684330065202374

“Effective hand therapy begins with clinical expertise, but it is kindness that builds trust,
motivates patients and supports true recovery”
~ Ellen de Boer, Occupational Therapist & Hand Therapist, Netherlands

“Hand therapy is a companion through the darkness of pain and injury, guiding you back to strength,
work, and life.”
~ Tarannum Siddiqui, Hand Therapy Fellow, Nepal

Page 29

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Scientific Program Schedule
Time Topic Speaker/Resource
Person
Venue
Day 1: Thursday, 11
th September 2025
0845 - 0915 Registration
Axillary Hall 0930 - 1000 APFSHT - SHTICON 2025 Inaugural Function
1000 - 1010 About the Society for Hand Therapy, India Tejashree A. Dabholkar
1010 - 1025 Group Photo Session & Tea Break
Combined Session APFSSH-APFSHT-APWA
1030 - 1115 BB Joshi Oration: Thumbless to Thumbness Scott Kozin Ulnar +
Median Hall 1115 - 1200 R Venkataswami Oration: Rheumatoid Hand Surgery -
the Past, the Present & the Future
Anthony Berger
1200 - 1215 Tea Break
Session I Chairperson: Rashmi
Yeradkar

Axillary Hall Faculty Talk
1215 - 1230 Keynote Address: Progress with Purpose Shrikant Chinchalkar
1230 - 1245 FPL Rehabilitation & Outcomes Marjolein Wind
1245 - 1300 Technology and it's Use in Upper Extremity Prosthetic
Management
Deepali Kant
End of Session I
1300 - 1400 Lunch Break
Session II Chairperson: Kavita
Deshmukh

1400 - 1545 Workshop: Tips and Tricks of Dynamic Splinting Shrikant Chinchalkar

Axillary Hall
1545 - 1600 Tea Break
1600 - 1730

Best Oral Paper Presentation Chairperson: Jose Mary
Sangeetha X
Use of Patient - Reported Outcomes for Upper Limb
Conditions in Tamil Nadu: A Mixed-Methods Study
Veeragoudhaman TS
Perception of Cultural Sensitivity Among Occupational
Therapists Working in Field of Hand Rehabilitation in
India
Disha Save
Effectiveness of Dynamic Splinting in Post-Traumatic
Hand Stiffness: A Systematic Review
Mansi Mulye
Effect of Graded Motor Imagery (GMI) Vs Exercise in the
Dart Throwing Motion (DTM) Plane, in Improving Hand
Function & ADL Performance in Patients with Distal
Radius Fracture
Subhashree Sahoo
The Relationship Between the Hand Injury, Activity
Limitation and Level of Depression
Vinoth Kumar T
The SHUEE Assessment: A Valuable Outcome Measure
for Single-Event Multilevel Surgery in Paediatric
Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy
Aruna N
A Technological Approach to Measure Hand Grip
Strength and Pinch Strength: Validity and Reliability of a
Bluetooth Enabled Dynamometer in Young Healthy
Adults
Roopa Desai

Page 30

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Time Topic Speaker/Resource
Person
Venue

The Validity and Reliability of Wrist Motion Capture in
Healthy Adults Using Marker Less Motion Capture
Wong Man Wah, Josephine
(Free Paper)

Axillary Hall
The Role of Hand Therapists Working as Advanced
Practitioners: A Scoping Review
Jade Wong
(Free Paper)
Prelim. Findings From a Progressive Post-Op Protocol
Allowing Imm, Forearm Rotation & Graduated Wrist
Motion at 2 Weeks Following Combined Scaphotriquetral
Capsulodesis & Dorsal Peripheral TFCC Repair
Rosanne Cross
(Free Paper)
Early Mobilization & Physiotherapy Techniques for
Addressing Complications in High-TBSA Upper Extremity
Burns: From Acute Care to Functional Independence: A
Case Study
Ho Wing Kelvin Fung
(Free Paper)
Faculty Talk Chairperson: Kavita
Deshmukh
1730 - 1745 Sport Injuries of the Hand and Wrist: A Quick Glance on
the Pitch
Zulfiquar Rahimtoola
1745 - 1800 Rehabilitation of Hand Fractures in Hongkong Josephine M W [RS]
1800 - 1815 Current Concepts of Rehabilitation of Radial Wrist Pain Alpana Joshi
1815 - 1830 Proximal Stability: A Key for Distal Hand Functioning; An
Overview
Tejashree A. Dabholkar
End of Session II
1830 - 1930 Society for Hand Therapy, India - General Body Meeting
1930 onward Musical Osteoblasts and Dinner for All Delegates

End of Day 1

S. No.

Categories of Awards at APFSHT-SHTICON’2025
1

SHTI Best Oral Paper Award
2

SHTI Best ePoster Award
3

SHTI Best Innovative Technology Award
4

SHTI Best Mini Movie Award
5

SHTI Best Essay Award

Page 31

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Time Topic Speaker/Resource
Person
Venue
Day 2: Friday, 12
th September 2025
Session III Chairperson: Dr.
Veeragoudhaman T. S.

Axillary Hall Faculty Talk
0930 - 0945

Return to Functional Capacity After Traumatic Hand
Injury
Arpita Dharia

0945 - 1000

Pain Management in Hand Therapy: Teaching Patient
About Pain
Kris Tong Duan Lian

1000 - 1015 Rationale of Splinting in Spastic Upper Limb Shovan Saha
1015 - 1030
Rehabilitation and Functional Outcome of Major Upper
Limb Replantation Gobinath K
Session III - Pause
Combined Session APFSSH-APFSHT-APWA
1030 - 1115

Tajima Oration: When to Change Gears in Your Practice
& How to Keep Going
S Raja Sabapathy

Ulnar +
Median Hall 1115 - 1200

APFSSH Presidential Lecture: Children with Congenital
Hand Differences, their Parents and a Hand Surgeon

Goo Hyun Baek

Combined Session APFSSH-APFSHT-APWA

1200 -1300 Stiff Hand

Ulnar +
Median Hall

Stiff Finger-PIP/MCP: Surgical Intervention
S Raja Sabapathy

Stiff Finger-MCP/PIP: Hand therapy Intervention
Shrikant Chinchalkar

Stiff Wrist: Surgical Intervention
P C Ho

Stiff Wrist: Hand Therapy Intervention
Shovan Saha

Stiff Forearm: Surgical Intervention
Chaitanya Mudgal

Stiff Forearm: Hand Therapy Intervention
Ellen de Boer

End of Session III

Lunch Break

Session IV Chairperson: Sofia H. Azad

Axillary Hall
1400 - 1545

Workshop: Lymphedema Management in Upper Limb

Alpana Joshi

Tea Break
Faculty Talk
1600 – 1615

Keynote Address: Challenges, Innovation & Road Ahead
in Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injury Rehabilitation: An
Indian Perspective
Chhaya Verma

Axillary Hall
1615 – 1630

Technology Application in Mallet Finger Rehabilitation -
Innovative Use of Technology & Tailored Splint Design in
Clinical Practice
Kelvin LIU

1630 – 1645

Surgeons and Therapists - Working Together to Get Good
Outcomes in Mutilating Upper Limb Injuries
S Raja Sabapathy

1645 – 1700

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Current
Consensus
Ashok Ghodke

1700 – 1715

Thumb Osteoarthritis Management

Ho Wing Kelvin Fung

1715 - 1730 Progress Towards Functions- Post Flexor Tendon Repair Shamima Sitabkhan

Page 32

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Time Topic Speaker/Resource
Person
Venue
1730 - 1815 Panel Discussion: Hand Therapy Practice: Asia - Pacific
Perspective
Moderator: Punita V. Solanki
Shovan Saha
Josephine M W [RS]
Kris Tong Duan Lian

Axillary Hall
Best ePoster Presentation Chairperson: Vaishali
Katole

1800 - 1830 Flaccidity to Functionality of Upper Extremity in Stroke
Patients: A Retrospective Case Series
Eshani Mallick

Axillary Hall

AI X Healthcare: Purpose-Driven Innovation Vrushali Jadhav
Assessment And Rehabilitation for A Patient with
Concurrent Traumatic Ulnar and Median Nerve Injury: A
Case Study
Ho Wing Kelvin Fung
Facilitating Hand Dominance Transfer with Pencil
Gripper in Post Right Trans Radial Amputation for
Handwriting Training: A Case Report
Chetna Balie
Correlation Between Hand Grip Strength and Glycaemic
Control Amongst Chronic Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Population
Nistha Mishra
Combination of Dynamic Stability Approach and Manual
Therapy for Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint Pain: A Case
Report
Ho Wing Kelvin Fung
Enhancing Hand Function Post-Crush Injury Through
Occupational Therapy- A Case Report Study
Gauri Kulkarni
Research Progress on Postoperative Nursing of Patients
Undergoing Pedicle Flap Surgery for Hand Trauma
Ying Liu
Nursing Care of a Patient with Giant Tumour Resection in
the Forearm
Jiayu Zhou
Trigger Thumb Improved by IP Joint Blocking Splint - 2
Cases
Hiroki Hayashi
Clinical Efficacy and Mechanism of Combined
Acupuncture Treatment of Cervical Jiaji Points and Hand
Yang Meridian Points in Cervical Radiculopathy
Zhenjv Lai
Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDS)
Associated with Tabla Playing and Its Influence on Hand
Strength and Disability.
Tejashree A. Dabholkar
End of Session IV
1830 – 1930

Meeting: Office Bearers of all Societies of Hand Therapy

1930
onwards
Live Indian Classical Instrumental & Vocal Music -
Traditional Dress Night and Dinner for All Delegates

End of Day 2

Page 33

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Time Topic Speaker/Resource
Person
Venue
Day 3: Saturday, 13
th September 2025
Session V Chairperson: Arpita
Dharia

Axillary Hall 0900 - 0930 Best Mini Movies
Turning the Ordinary into Extraordinary Akshata Gamare
Beyond Exercise: The Power of Purposeful Activity in
Hand Therapy
Siddhesh Khandagale

A Journey from Care to Cure Vrushali Jadhav
3D Printing Custom Adaptive Devices for Functional
Independence
Vinoth Kumar T.

0930 - 0945 Best Innovative Technologies
Design and Development of a Custom-Made 3D Printed
Dynamic Adaptive Spoon
Vinoth Kumar T.

Axillary Hall
Innovative Above Elbow Prosthesis: Powered Elbow and
Body Driven Terminal Device
Hemant Gawali

Casting Motion to Mobilise Stiffness (CMMS) -
Experience with Hand Injury Patients in Indian Clinical
Setting
Pratha Mehta

0945 -1030

Pannel Discussion: Birth Brachial Plexus Palsy:
Surgical Strategies and Measures of Rehabilitation
Moderator: Dr. Chhaya Verma

Mukund Thatte
Meenu Chadha
Pragyan Singh

1030 - 1115

Symposium: Burns Hand: Surgical & Rehabilitation
Approaches
Moderator: Dr. Sofia H. Azad

Vinita Puri
Rashmi Yeradkar
Gobinath K

1115 - 1130 Tea Break
Session VI Chairperson: Gobinath K.

Axillary Hall
Faculty Talk
1130 - 1145

Rehabilitative And Assistive Technologies for Post-
Stroke Upper Limb Rehabilitation
Rita Cheng

1145 - 1200 Upper Extremity Neurectomy Post Stroke Shannon Toh
1200 - 1215

The Aging Hand: Reclaiming Function Through
Purposeful Occupational Therapy
Jyotsna R. Bankhele

1215 - 1230

Plaster of Paris: Completely Forgotten Hand Splinting
Material? OR Still in Practice?
Jose Mary Sangeetha X

1230 - 1245

Unlocking The Hand Therapy Path: A Journey of
Progress with Purpose
Yogita P. Shendge

End of Session VI
1300 - 1400 Lunch Break
1400 - 1500 Valedictory Function
1500 - 1515 Finale: Group Photo

End of Day 3

Page 34

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Faculty Talk & Workshop Abstracts

Day 1: 11
th September 2025, Thursday

1. Title: About the Society for Hand Therapy, India
Faculty: Dr. Tejashree A. Dabholkar
Abstract: A presentation about the history of inception, ongoing progress and growth of the Society
for Hand Therapy India shall highlight about the founder officer bearers, aims and scope of the
society, registration and full membership of IFSHT, events organized till date, membership
information, presence of the society in varied social media. A list of past and current office bearers
and past and current list of annual conferences held till date shall be included.

2. Title: Keynote Address: Progress with Purpose – Purpose for Progress
Faculty: Dr. Shrikant Chinchalkar
Abstract: Aligning success with significance, the progress is not just moving forward, its moving
forward towards something that matters. Our purpose in life is to find the purpose and give our
whole heart and soul to it and this is for our progress, for our profession and for our patients. With
the changes in technology and to improvise the technology, the process is necessary to progress. The
presenter highlights his 50+ years of hand therapy practice to demonstrate the process he used to
progress.

3. Title: Flexor Pollicis Longus: Rehabilitation & Outcomes
Faculty: Marjolein Wind
Abstract: Presentation will specifically focus on injuries to the flexor pollicis longus (FPL), the
outcomes after a rehabilitation process, and possible recommendations for practical application.

4. Title: Technology and It's Use in Upper Extremity Prosthetic Management
Faculty: Deepali Kant
Abstract: Beyond the Prosthetics: Embracing a New Reality
Getting a prosthetic hand is only the first step. For many users, the real journey begins after receiving
their new limb. Learning to use a prosthesis effectively takes time, patience, and proper support.
Building confidence and integrating the device into daily life is a process—one that can be as
challenging as it is transformative.
Upper limb prosthetics have come a long way. What once seemed like science fiction—robotic arms
that move with thought, hands that restore the sense of touch, has become reality. But the future of
prosthetics isn’t just about advanced technology. It's about giving the freedom to move, work, and
live without limitations to prosthetic users.

Page 35

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Smarter, More Intuitive Prosthetics
One of the most groundbreaking developments in recent years is AI-driven myoelectric control.
This technology uses artificial intelligence to interpret the user’s muscle signals. Over time, the
prosthesis “learns” from these signals, enabling smoother, more natural movements. The result?
Greater precision and control that evolves with the user.
Restoring the Sense of Touch
Another game-changing innovation is haptic feedback. Through sensors embedded in the prosthetic
fingertips, users can receive signals that mimic touch sensations. These signals are sent to the brain,
restoring a sense of feel that was once thought impossible. For many, this isn't just a technical
improvement—it's a reconnection to the world around them.
3D Printing: Customization Without the Cost
3D printing is revolutionizing prosthetic design and production. Traditional prosthetics can be
expensive and time-consuming to manufacture. With 3D printing, users benefit from fast, affordable
customization. Whether it’s a lightweight hand for everyday tasks or a durable one designed for
sports and heavy-duty use, prosthetics can now be tailored to individual needs more efficiently than
ever before.
A Future Full of Promise
In the next few years, expect even more revolutionary changes. Prosthetic arms are becoming
smarter, more comfortable, and more accessible. From AI-powered control systems to
personalized, low-cost designs, the focus is shifting toward enhancing quality of life.
Technology is making prosthetics feel more natural than ever before—but the true breakthrough lies
in restoring independence and confidence to users around the world.

5. Workshop Title: Tips and Tricks of Dynamic Splinting
Faculty: Dr. Shrikant Chinchalkar
Abstract: The hands-on-dynamic splinting lab is not important and essential skill a hand therapist
must have to treat various types of hand and upper extremity pathologies. The hands-on session
discusses the biomechanical principles and designing and fabricating dynamic MCP extension splint
and its usage for a variety of hand disorders. The session also includes the fabrication of static
progressive wrist splint, PIP joint extension splint and their application in wrist and PIP joint
pathologies. This two-hour session will focus mainly on the stiff joints.

6. Tile: Sport Injuries of the Hand and Wrist: A Quick Glance on the Pitch
Faculty: Zulfiquar Rahimtoola
Abstract: The key to success in diagnosing sport hand and wrist injuries starts with an adequate
history, detailed knowledge of topographical anatomy and precise examination. Close
communication with the patient followed by specific tests can reduce the need for further
investigations, reduce expenses and the time needed for further investigations. A prompt diagnosis

Page 36

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

will contribute to an early start of hand therapy and accelerate recovery without the possible
complications of delayed treatment and possible poor functional outcome.
Hand therapy starts on the pitch and should be discussed and tailored to the often-high expectations
of all athletes at all levels of sport.

7. Title: Rehabilitation of Hand Fractures in Hong Kong
Faculty: Josephine Wong Man-Wah
Abstract: Early motion is the essential principle of rehabilitation after finger and hand fractures.
After the closed or open reduction with internal fixation of the fractured sites, early mobilization
facilitates swelling control and fracture healing so as to prevent the development of joint stiffness
that limits joint motion, leading to potential functional impairment. Splinting is the major device to
maintain the fracture sites in the best alignment while enhancing the affected joint motion and soft
tissue gliding though protected finger motion. Splinting also plays an important role in correcting the
consequent complications to restore joint flexibility, tendon gliding and hence hand functions. Other
interventions including pressure therapy and mobilization activities are instrumental in the
occupational therapy process. Hand therapists in Hong Kong make use of different splinting materials
to match with different patients’ recovery status. They work together with hand surgeons and other
multi-disciplinary professions in a team to pursue the best treatment outcome.

8. Title: Current Concepts of Rehabilitation of Radial Wrist Pain
Faculty: Alpana Joshi
Abstract: Current concepts for radial wrist pain: Many patients who see a hand therapist have pain
on the radial side of their wrist. This presentation will identify and detail the most common
pathologies affecting the radial wrist, providing a description of their signs and symptoms. We will
explore the latest evidence-based rehabilitation techniques and therapeutic exercises for both soft
tissue and bony conditions of the radial wrist.

9. Title: Proximal Stability: A Key for Distal Hand Functioning; An Overview
Faculty: Dr. Tejashree A. Dabholkar
Abstract: The hand, as an essential distal functioning unit, works in various planes to complete tasks.
Good flexibility of proximal structures and optimal functioning of force couples are essential for good
distal functioning in terms of coordination, strength, and dexterity. Studies on surgeons, dentists, and
instrumentists show that impairments in the shoulder or elbow significantly impact distal
functioning. Additionally, research suggests a correlation between neck pain and hand function, as
the cervical spine plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal posture and neuromuscular control for
hand activities. Moreover, neural structures, including the brachial plexus and median, ulnar, and
radial nerves, play a vital role in hand function, transmitting motor and sensory signals that enable
precise movements and sensations.

Page 37

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Fatigue in the proximal muscles of the shoulder, scapula, forearm, and neck region, as well as neural
tension or compression, can affect dexterity, strength, and overall work capacity. Occupations with
greater proximal biomechanical impairments, neural dysfunction, or weakness often experience
reduced productivity and performance.

Day 2: 12
th September 2025, Friday

10. Title: Return to Functional Capacity After Traumatic Hand Injury
Faculty: Arpita Dharia
Abstract: Return to work and work conditioning for hand injury patients
Work Conditioning assesses work ability over time through testing, exercise, and functional activities
and facilitates return to work in a system that rewards disability. Work conditioning can be
introduced early when medically safe and noted to have reduction in medical costs and disability
benefits provided to the injured worker. According to the American Physical Therapy Association
(APTA), determining work ability is a specialty area of therapy and the quality of the clinician is more
important than location or price. Hand therapists are preferred by insurance carriers, employers and
attorneys to perform upper extremity Work Conditioning programs due to their expertise which
assists injured workers with realizing their optimal physical functioning levels.

11. Title: Pain Management in Hand Therapy: Teaching Patients About Pain
Faculty: Kris Tong Duan Lian
Abstract: This presentation explores the integration of Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) into hand
therapy. We'll discuss the critical role of pain management in hand rehabilitation, explain modern
pain concepts, and introduce PNE principles. The talk will examine PNE's potential in addressing pain
from acute hand injuries. Our goal is to inspire new approaches in hand therapy and research for
improved patient outcomes.

12. Title: Rationale of Splinting in Spastic Upper Limb
Faculty: Dr. Shovan Saha
Abstract: Spasticity is a common motor disorder resulting from upper motor neuron lesions, often
seen in conditions such as stroke, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, or multiple sclerosis.
Spasticity in the upper limb leads to abnormal posturing, pain, contractures, and functional
limitations that hinder independence in activities of daily living. One of the widely used interventions
to manage spasticity and its complications is splinting. The rationale behind splinting in spastic
upper limb encompasses biomechanical, neurological, and functional objectives.
Splinting serves to maintain joint alignment and prevent deformities. A splint provides a low-
load, prolonged stretch to muscles and connective tissue, counteracting the spastic pull. Splints play

Page 38

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

a role in modulating muscle tone. Sustained positioning in a lengthened state can reduce neural
excitability and, consequently, diminish spasticity over time. This tone-inhibiting effect allows
therapists and caregivers to perform passive and active-assisted movements more effectively.
Splinting also has a functional rationale, by improving the biomechanical advantage of the upper
limb, making functional tasks easier. Thus, splints not only prevent deformities but also optimize the
possibility of meaningful use of the affected hand.
In conclusion, splinting in spastic upper limb is a multifaceted intervention with rationales rooted in
prevention, tone reduction, functional optimization, comfort, hygiene, and psychological well-being.
While splints alone cannot cure spasticity, they form a vital part of an integrated rehabilitation
approach, complementing physical therapy, pharmacological management, and, when needed,
surgical interventions. The presentation will present with the splinting practises in a tertiary care
hospital.

13. Title: Assessment of Capability and Patient Satisfaction After Major Upper Extremity
Replantation
Faculty: Gobinath K
Abstract
Introduction: Replantation of amputated parts ranging from whole extremities to finger tips are
being done all over the world with consistent success. But recent emphasis has now shifted to
functional recovery of the restored part rather than mere survival only. The aim of replantation is to
produce major functional, cosmetic and psychological improvements in these patients.
Hand Therapy plays an important role in restoration of function and rehabilitation. The challenge
lies in the fact that both flexors and extensors are damaged. Therapy must be individualized
considering the status and structures which has been repaired. With this in mind, the objective of
this article is to evaluate the functional outcomes of replantation of post-traumatic amputations
conducted over 6 years. These findings will promote continuing improvement in rehabilitation of
replanted Hand.
Materials and Methods: Patients who underwent upper limb replantation from 2016 to 2022 were
included in the study. In between these periods there were 1 shoulder level replantation, 9 arm level
replantation, 3 Elbow level replantation, 12 forearm level Replantation and 5 wrist level
Replantation. Therapy started between 4 to 6 weeks considering the critical vascular repair. It
consists of Splinting and tenodesis movement of MCP with IP joints and fingers with wrist \acting
well. Functional outcome was determined by DASH score and Chen’s scoring. Sensory, Motor and
strength measurements were taken to assess the recovery of repaired structures.
Results: A Total of 30 patients with 12 – 60 of age (Mean age of 34.09). 30 patients were evaluated
at an average follow up of 35 months. Finger flexion power of grade 4 in 11 patients, grade 3 in 8
patients, less than 3 in 11 patients. Protective sensation was restored in 30% of patients. Of the 28
patients, the functional outcome of replantation using DASH questionnaire was between 0 to 75.3.

Page 39

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

According to Chen’s Criteria grade I in 4 patients, grade II in 6 patients, grade III in 16 patients and
grade IV in 4 patients.
Conclusion: While the function of replanted hands may never be equivalent to that of normal hand,
it can still make them work efficiently and independently for their ADLs. Criteria for replantation is
that the outcome of surgery should yield a level of function higher than that possible with the use of
a prosthesis.

14. Workshop Title: Lymphedema Management in Upper Limb
Faculty: Alpana Joshi
Abstract: Lymphedema is a condition where protein-rich fluid collects in the body's tissues, causing
swelling. This workshop begins with a 15-minute presentation that covers the basics of the lymphatic
system, explains lymphedema, and discusses how it's managed. Following the presentation, you'll
receive hands-on training for applying short-stretch compression bandages to the upper limb.

15. Title: Keynote Address: Challenges, Innovation & Road Ahead in Traumatic Brachial Plexus
Injury Rehabilitation: An Indian Perspective
Faculty: Chhaya Verma
Abstract: Traumatic brachial plexus injury (TBPI) is one of the most disabling peripheral nerve
injuries, often striking young, active men in their most productive years. The impact extends far
beyond motor loss, patients face sudden unemployment, financial hardship, and social isolation,
while families shoulder the dual burden of caregiving and economic strain.
In India, the rehabilitation journey is shaped by unique challenges. Diagnosis is often delayed, and
specialized care remains fragmented across surgical and rehabilitation teams working in silos.
Medical insurance rarely covers the prolonged course of rehabilitation. A striking urban–rural divide
forces patients from remote regions to travel long distances for expert services, while lack of
awareness among primary care doctors leads many to be told to “accept fate” prematurely.
Despite these barriers, innovations are emerging. Advances in reconstructive surgery, structured
physiotherapy protocols, and the use of gravity-eliminated and resistive exercises are improving
outcomes. Technology-driven solutions such as telerehabilitation and collaborations with design
institutions are opening new avenues for patient-centric care and assistive devices. Holistic and
community-based models, along with hub-and-spoke referral systems, provide scalable frameworks
for wider reach.
Looking ahead, the creation of a national Indian BPI Registry is pivotal. Such a system would unify
data across centers, improve evidence-based care, monitor long-term outcomes, and drive advocacy
and policy change.
Rehabilitation in TBPI is ultimately about restoring more than movement—it is about dignity, hope,
and meaningful reintegration into society.

Page 40

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

16. Title: Surgeons and Therapists: Working Together to Get Good Outcomes in Mutilating Upper
Limb Injuries
Faculty: S Raja Sabapathy
Abstract: Mutilating hand injuries pose a challenge to both surgeons and therapists in their attempts
to get good outcomes. Since there is tissue loss, they may need multiple staged procedures and may
take a long-time frame to reach the maximum potential. Key factors to achieve good outcomes are
the therapists and surgeons must be happy working together; the patient must perceive surgeons
and therapists as a team which can be helped by the surgeon introducing the therapists early on in
the management and doing rounds together. The therapists must know the social, economic and
cultural aspects of the patient and exhibit empathy. Since the results come after a long haul, rapport
establishment is important. Confidence is enhanced when the therapists are well groomed and
exhibit professionalism in their actions. Good documentation and keeping abreast of the advances
in the field greatly help in delivering optimal care and advancing the science.

17. Title: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Current Consensus
Faculty: Ashok Ghodke
Abstract: Does a condition like CRPS exist, lets demystify and conclude about this condition, role of
physiotherapy and rehabilitation.

18. Title: Thumb Osteoarthritis Management
Faculty: Ho Wing Kelvin Fung
Abstract: This presentation provides an integrated overview of painful thumb osteoarthritis (OA),
underlining dynamic stabilization as a cornerstone of conservative management. Key slides
emphasize the importance of maintaining a supple first web space, training thumb stabilizers to
centralize the first metacarpal, and educating patients on lifelong exercises. Treatment approaches
feature manual techniques such as joint mobilization: including radial and palmar glides, plus muscle
re-education with isometric “C” holds, bands, and functional retraining. Diagnostic content highlights
focused ROM assessment, special tests for stability, and the role of anatomy in guiding personalized
interventions. This session equips clinicians with evidence-based principles and actionable skills to
optimize thumb function and reduce OA pain.

19. Title: Progress Towards Function: Post Flexor Tendon Repair
Faculty: Dr. Shamima Sitabkhan
Abstract: Flexor tendon injuries and repairs remain amongst the most challenging conditions to
rehabilitate, due to the tendency of increased adhesion formation and the potential for tendon
rupture. Traditionally, rehabilitation following flexor tendon repair has focused on minimizing
complications and restore basic functional use of the hand. Hand therapists have emphasized
therapeutic exercises aimed at improving measurable outcomes such as range of motion, strength,

Page 41

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

coordination, and decreasing edema and pain. While these goals are essential, we must shift our
approach. To truly enhance functional outcomes, rehabilitation should integrate meaningful, real-life
activities from the earliest appropriate stage of recovery when medically allowed. It should be a core
part of the process to better engage our clients, promote purposeful movement, and ultimately
improve our client’s quality of life.

20. Title: Panel Discussion: Hand Therapy Practice: Asia Pacific Perspective
Panellists: 1. Kris Tong Duan Lian; 2. Josephine MW[RS]; 3. Pravin Kumar Yadav; 4. Dr. Shovan Saha
Moderator: Punita V. Solanki
Abstract: Three discussion questions shall be taken up to know the Asia Pacific and Country specific
standpoints and viewpoints as per the panellists’ own experience.
1. Question 1 (Generic Professional Issues)
What is your experience in your country with
regard to:
1. Role-identity crisis amongst allied healthcare professionals
2. Accessibility to hand-therapy centers for patients/clients
3. Demand versus supply of hand therapy across your country.
Any survey outcome on that?
2. Question 2 (Education Programs)
Do you have a Hand Therapy specialization
post-graduate programs or certification programs or
fellowship programs or computer-based online programs in
your country or are offered by your institution?
How much emphasis is put on evidence-based, skill-based, and
simulated learning in these programs? Is this information
available on your websites for prospective candidates to
pursue them?
3. Question 3 (Challenges or Barriers Faced)
Do you come across any socio-cultural
challenges or conflicts of interest, or language barriers, or any
Other challenges during your Hand Therapy practice?
Do you have any experience in managing patients/clients
from other countries, and have you faced socio-cultural
dilemma, or language barriers?
Following the panel discussion, the panellists’ viewpoints shall be summarized by the moderator
including the perspectives from participants from their countries.

Page 42

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Day 3: 13
th September 2025, Saturday

21. Title: Pannel Discussion: Birth Brachial Plexus Palsy: Surgical Strategies and Measures of
Rehabilitation
Panellists: 1. Dr. Mukund Thatte; 2. Meenu Chadha; 3. Pragyan Singh
Moderator: Dr. Chhaya Verma
Abstract: Panel Questions
To the Plastic Surgeon
1. When you first evaluate an infant with OBPI, what are the key signs that guide you toward early
surgical intervention versus a wait-and-see approach?
2. Timing is always controversial—how do you decide the right window for nerve grafting or
transfers?
3. How do you counsel families about realistic outcomes from surgery, especially when results are
not guaranteed?
To the Hand Physiotherapist
1. What does the rehab journey look like for a newborn or infant who hasn’t had surgery?
2. How does physiotherapy change after a surgical intervention?
3. Where do you see the biggest challenges in getting consistent progress outside the clinic, especially
at home?
To the Hand Occupational Therapist
1. From your perspective, what are the most common functional limitations children face as they
grow up with OBPI?
2. How do you tailor therapy to help a child participate in daily life—things like dressing, school, or
play?
3. What tools or adaptive strategies have you found most effective in promoting independence?
Cross-Discipline Questions
1. For all three of you: where do you see gaps between surgical expectations and what therapy can
actually deliver?
2. How do you coordinate care across specialties so families are not getting mixed messages?
3. Looking ahead, what’s one area—whether surgical technique, rehab method, or family support—
you think could really change outcomes for OBPI?

22. Title: Symposium: Burns Hand: Surgical & Rehabilitation Approaches
i. Title: Surgical Intervention in Post Burns Hand
Faculty: Dr. Vinita Puri
Abstract: Post-burn contractures are common sequelae of deep burns and significantly impair
function, mobility, and aesthetics. Surgical management is directed toward complete contracture
release and resurfacing of the defect with suitable tissue. The choice of cover depends on the severity,

Page 43

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

location, and extent of scarring. Mild contractures may be corrected using Z-plasty or local flap, or
skin grafting. For extensive or recurrent contractures, regional or distant flaps or free flaps provide
reliable and durable coverage. Successful outcomes require not only surgical release but also
postoperative splintage, physiotherapy, and scar modulation techniques to prevent recurrence. Thus,
a multidisciplinary approach integrating surgery and rehabilitation is essential to restore mobility,
function, and appearance in patients with post-burn contractures.

ii. Title: Hand Burns: Occupational Therapy and Rehabilitation
Faculty: Rashmi Yeradkar
Abstract: Burns injuries can lead to significant physical, psychological and functional impairments
and often requires long term multidisciplinary intervention. Occupational therapy plays a critical role
throughout the continuum of burn care- from acute to community reintegration. The primary goal of
restoring independence in daily living activities and enhancing quality of life. Occupational Therapy
interventions are evidenced -based and are tailored to individual patient goals.

iii. Title: Hand Burns: Rehabilitation
Faculty: Gobinath K
Abstract: Second- or third-degree burns affecting the hands result in post-burn scar contractures,
leading to severe functional limitations and aesthetic challenges. This often require multiple surgical
reconstructive procedures and intensive physiotherapy.
Acute Hand Burns management : Early splinting and positioning are crucial to minimize
impairments and maximize function.
Burn patients will require long-term follow-up for ROM, scar management, etc., (even if initial ROM
and mobility are normal) to maximize functional outcomes
Post Burn hand Contracture: Patients underwent contracture release surgery with skin grafts
and/or flaps, followed by at least six months of postoperative rehabilitation protocol to reduce joints
stiffness and improve range of motion and hand function. Passive assisted exercises were initiated
between third- and fourth week, followed by splinting and a progressive and tailored strengthening
programme. Patients were encouraged to continue their daily activities and were given a home
exercise programme. Total active motion and self-reported hand function assessed using the
Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ), were measured pre- and post-rehabilitation.
Improvements were observed across all MHQ subscales. The greatest mean difference was observed
in activities of daily living, while only minimal improvement was seen in pain intensity.
Our progressive exercise and splinting programme improved total active motion of the fingers and
hand function in people who underwent surgery for post-burn hand contractures. The findings are
limited in generalisability due to the small sample size, the absence of a control arm, and the single-
centre nature of the study.

Page 44

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

23. Title: Rehabilitative and Assistive Technologies for Post-Stroke Upper Limb Rehabilitation
Faculty: Rita Cheng
Abstract: Post-stroke upper limb impairment poses a significant challenge to functional
independence, hand use, and overall quality of life. In this talk, I will present clinically grounded
innovations in rehabilitative and assistive technologies designed to promote arm and hand motor
recovery, bridging the gap between hospital-based care and home rehabilitation. I will highlight the
integration of robotics, wearable devices, and connected rehabilitation platforms into therapy
practice, with a focus on home-based functional hand training and remote monitoring. Drawing on
insights from our clinical trials, I will discuss strategies for tailoring technology to individual patient
needs, enhancing engagement, and supporting sustained long-term recovery.

24. Title: Upper Extremity Neurectomy Post Stroke
Faculty: Shannon Toh
Abstract: Upper limb spasticity is a prevalent sequela of neurological conditions such as stroke and
traumatic brain injury, impacting on patients' functional abilities and quality of life. Spasticity is
characterized by the hyper-excitability of the stretch reflex, which leads to motor impairments,
resulting in activity limitations and participation restrictions. Neurotomy aims to interrupt this
stretch reflex and is used as a treatment for spasticity. Rehabilitation plays a role in maintaining this
effect. This presentation will share the rehabilitation protocol, outcome measures and findings for a
study investigating the effectiveness of neurotomy on spasticity from an occupational therapist
perspective in a restructured hospital in Singapore.

25. Title: The Aging Hand: Reclaiming Function through Purposeful Occupational Therapy
Faculty: Jyotsna R. Bankhele
Abstract: Background: The human hand plays a vital role in maintaining self-care, participation and
independence in meaningful occupations. With advancing age, structural and physiological changes
such as joint stiffness, muscle weakness, arthritis and tendon degeneration lead to gradual decline in
muscle strength, joint mobility, and neuromuscular coordination, all of which significantly affect
hand and upper extremity function. For many older adults, pain and reduced functional ability in the
hand and shoulder region interfere with activities of daily living (ADL) such as dressing, cooking,
grooming, and household tasks. These limitations not only impact independence but also reduce
confidence and participation in meaningful roles. Hand Therapy plays a vital role in addressing these
challenges through purposeful, activity-based interventions. Rather than focusing only on
impairment, the therapist emphasizes restoring function in real-life tasks, thereby enabling older
adults to maintain autonomy and quality of life.
Case Report: A 60-year-old female, presented with pain during initiation of shoulder abduction,
difficulty in pulling up pants, back cleaning, cutting vegetables, dressing, and overhead tasks. She was
diagnosed with supraspinatus bursitis. Initial assessment was followed by Occupational Therapy

Page 45

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

interventions included range of motion and strengthening exercises, activity modification,
ergonomic training, and purposeful functional retraining. After intervention, marked improvement
was observed reflecting restored independence and improved quality of life.
Conclusion: This case demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted Occupational Therapy in the
management of the aging hand. Purposeful interventions not only address pain and strength deficits
but also focus on enabling participation in essential and meaningful activities. By reclaiming function,
Occupational Therapy empowers older adults to remain independent, active, and socially integrated,
highlighting its crucial role in healthy aging.

26. Title: Plaster of Paris: Completely Forgotten Hand Splinting Material? OR Still in Practice?
Faculty: Jose Mary Sangeetha X
Abstract: Plaster of Paris (POP) remains a clinically, cost-effective, and highly mouldable material
for hand splinting, retaining irreplaceable roles despite the rise of modern synthetics, especially in
some Asian countries.
Plaster of Paris has origins in ancient civilizations and has long been the mainstay of fracture care
and orthopaedics. Although modern materials like fiberglass and thermoplastics offer advantages in
weight and convenience, POP is unique in conforming precisely to complex hand anatomy, allowing
breathable immobilization and maintaining broad global accessibility.
A historical and clinical review was conducted, analysing POP’s evolution, material properties, and
comparative clinical outcomes through literature synthesis and representative case studies. The
review included application protocols and complication-prevention strategies relevant to
contemporary practice POP’s strengths lie in its superior anatomical moulding, low cost and gentle
exothermic setting, which aids tissue healing. Common uses include acute hand fractures, post-
surgical tendon or ligament support and other hand conditions. Case examples demonstrated high
functional recovery and patient satisfaction rates. Limitations include slower drying, heavier weight,
skill-dependent
application, and partial interference on imaging. Technological advances include hybrid POP-
synthetic splints and renewed emphasis on POP technique training in educational curricula.
Rather than being obsolete, Plaster of Paris remains essential for selected clinical scenarios. Clinical
and educational integration of POP—with contemporary protocols and innovation—ensures diverse,
individualized care possibilities in hand therapy.

27. Title: Unlocking the Hand Therapy Path - A Journey of Progress with Purpose
Faculty: Yogita P. Shendge
Abstract: Hand therapy, despite its longstanding existence, awareness about it amongst healthcare
professionals and the general public remains limited. Additionally, the number of skilled hand
therapists is scarce, often counted on fingers.

Page 46

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

With over fifteen years of clinical experience in the rehabilitative domain, I have observed and
experienced the critical need for specialized hand therapy services. Recognizing this gap, I developed
a keen interest in advancing this niche area of healthcare about a decade ago.
Driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact, I dedicated myself to acquiring the necessary skills
and knowledge to unlock the potential path of hand therapy. My work plan concentrated on activities
that facilitated me to evolve as a committed hand therapist and to establish facilities and
infrastructure that offer comprehensive, high-quality hand therapy services. With a vision is to
create, augment, and develop an ecosystem that not only elevates the standards of hand therapy but
also establishes a strong footprint for Indian hand therapy practice, the journey continues to Progress
with the purpose of contributing towards raising awareness, continuously upgrading self, training
more therapists, and ultimately improving patient outcomes through dedicated and specialized hand
therapy care.

“The Consequence of Hand Injury is Often Catastrophic; the Restoration of its Function is Gratifying.”
~ Dr. Shovan Saha, Adl. Professor (Occupational Therapy), Manipal, Karnataka, India

“Hands are the building blocks of functions and Occupational therapists are the architects of
independence.”
~ Kanishka Sharma, Senior Occupational Therapist and Rehab Supervisor, Bangalore, India

Page 47

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Abstracts of Oral Papers, ePoster Papers, Mini Movies, Innovative Technology

Oral Papers

1. Title: Use of Patient-Reported Outcomes for Upper Limb Conditions in Tamil Nadu: A Mixed-
Methods Study
Authors: Veeragoudhaman TS
1
, Vinitha Arasu
1
, Cynthia Srikesavan
2,3

Affiliations
1
SRM College of Physiotherapy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu,
India
2
Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, United
Kingdom
3
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, United Kingdom
Mobile: +91-95003 75408
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Purpose: To examine the current practices of physiotherapists in using patient-reported outcome
measures (proms) for patients with upper limb musculoskeletal conditions in Tamil Nadu.
To explore physiotherapists’ views on incorporating proms into their daily practice.
Methods: Physiotherapists who regularly treat Tamil-speaking patients with upper limb
musculoskeletal conditions were invited. The survey focused on understanding physiotherapists’
knowledge, familiarity, and use of proms in practice. Individual face-to-face or telephone interviews
were conducted. Data were coded from interview recordings, and key themes were developed.
Results: A total of 158 physiotherapists participated in the survey (67 women, 91 men; average age:
32 years, range: 22 to 59 years). Among them, 126 (80%) worked in private practice or teaching
hospitals, and the majority (93/158, 59%) had less than five years of experience. A significant
proportion (152/158, 96%) frequently treated shoulder conditions, while only 1.9% treated wrist or
hand conditions. Common outcomes assessed included pain, range of motion, activities of daily living,
muscle strength, and grip strength. However, 38% of physiotherapists reported rarely or never using
patient-reported outcome measures (proms), with only 14.5% consistently using them.
Physiotherapists were most familiar with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain (90.5%), the
Numerical Verbal Rating Scale (NVRS) for pain (85%), the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI)
(65%), and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire (57.5%). Less
familiarity was found with other scales such as the Constant-Murley Shoulder Outcome Score and the
AUSCAN. The primary barrier identified was the non-availability of Tamil versions of proms (69%),
while lack of time was not seen as a barrier by 39% of respondents. Key facilitators included
workplace training, peer support, and free online, auto-scored proms in Tamil.

Page 48

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Themes from interviews with 12 physiotherapists strengthened the survey findings and also
suggested increasing awareness and education, and using shorter questionnaire versions.
Summary Points: Our findings suggest that the use and familiarity with upper limb proms among
physiotherapists in Tamil Nadu is generally low to moderate. Awareness and development of
resources for both patients and physiotherapists are required to integrate the use of proms into
clinical practice.
Level of Evidence: Level 3: The current study was conducted at a single time point and was not
followed up over a period.
Key Words: Tamil, Upper limb, Barriers, Facilitators, Patient-reported outcome measures.
Ethics Approval: Institutional Ethics Committee, SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre
(Reference Number: ECR/8804/INST/TN/2013/RR-19,
dated 26/03/2024).

2. Title: Perception of Cultural Sensitivity Among Occupational Therapists Working in Field of Hand
Rehabilitation in India
Authors: Ms. Disha Save, Dr. Shovan Saha, MOT, PhD
Affiliations: Department of Occupational Therapy, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal
Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka
Mobile: +91-8879423625
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Background: Hands are an essential element in our day-to-day activities and the cultural context of
the individual influences hand usage. Culture being an important part of occupational therapy, needs
to be considered for client-centered approach. Occupational therapists have a responsibility to be
sensitive to cultural values and behaviours while treating their diverse client population. There was
limited literature related to cultural sensitivity among occupational therapists in India, especially
those working in hand rehabilitation.
Study Design: Cross-sectional survey
Objectives: to determine the perception of cultural sensitivity among occupational therapists
working in field of hand rehabilitation in India.
Methods: A total of 130 occupational therapists practicing in field of hand rehabilitation across India
participated in the cross-sectional survey. The survey included a demographic form and Intercultural
Sensitivity Scale items to assess occupational therapists’ perception of cultural sensitivity across five
domains: Interaction Engagement, Respect for Cultural Differences, Interaction Confidence,
Interaction Enjoyment, and Interaction Attentiveness. Statistical analysis was performed to describe
the data received through the online survey. Descriptive statistics were used to outline the
demographic information. The relationship between the variables was analysed using inferential
analysis.

Page 49

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Results: The study findings revealed that occupational therapists practicing in hand rehabilitation in
India have above-average levels of cultural sensitivity. The Intercultural Sensitivity Scale yielded a
total mean score of 4.18 (0.43). The differences between demographic variables like gender,
qualification, primary practice setting, and geographical area were not found as statistically
significant. Correlation test demonstrated a low positive correlation between age (r=0.29) and work
experience (r=0.32) with total mean score.
Conclusion: In summary, occupational therapists practicing in hand rehabilitation in a culturally
diverse India exhibit above-average cultural sensitivity. Moreover, there exists a relationship between
therapist’s age and years of work experience with the level of cultural sensitivity.
Key Words: Occupational Therapist, Hand Rehabilitation, Cultural Sensitivity

3. Title: Effectiveness of Dynamic Splinting in Post-Traumatic Hand Stiffness: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mansi Manoj Mulye (BOTh., MOTh)
Author’s Affiliations: Assistant Professor, OT School & Centre, LTMMC, Sion, Mumbai
Contact details: 31/A/502, Suyog CHS, Above SBI, Tilak Nagar, Chembur, Mumbai-400089;
Mobile: +91-8169074243
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Background: Hand injuries from trauma, such as tendon lacerations, joint contractures, or fractures,
often result in stiffness and impaired function, & can have a significant effect on a patient’s ability to
work and overall quality of life. Rehabilitation aims to restore motion and strength, with splinting
being a cornerstone of therapy. Dynamic splinting, which applies a low-load, prolonged-duration
stretch, has been proposed as an effective intervention to enhance tissue remodelling. This review
evaluates the accessible literature to determine the evidence supporting dynamic splinting for post-
traumatic hand stiffness.
Study Design: Systematic Review
Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of dynamic splinting in improving range of motion & hand
function in post-traumatic hand stiffness.
Methods: A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, PMC, and Google Scholar databases.
Studies included were those available in full text, published in English, and focused specifically on
dynamic splinting in post-traumatic hand stiffness cases. The PRISMA 2020 guidelines were followed
to ensure structured reporting and transparency. Five studies met the inclusion criteria and were
synthesized qualitatively.
Results: Based on five accessible studies, evidence supports early initiation and prolonged use as key
factors in improving joint range of motion and functionality of hand.
Conclusion: This systematic review supports the use of dynamic splinting as an effective
intervention for restoring joint mobility and improving functional outcomes in post-traumatic hand

Page 50

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

stiffness. Its benefits are most pronounced when applied early in the recovery phase and with
adequate daily wear time.
Key Words: Dynamic Splinting, Hand Stiffness, Post-Traumatic, Range of Motion

4. Title: The relationship between the hand injury, activity limitation and level of depression
Author: Dr. Vinoth Kumar T.
Affiliation: MOT (Hand & Musculoskeletal Conditions); Assistant Professor, Institute of Occupational
Therapy, Srinivas University, Mangalore.
Mobile: +91-8746917704
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Background: Hand injuries can significantly impact function and emotional well-being. This study
aimed to explore the relationship between the severity of hand injury, activity limitation, and the level
of depression among patients referred for occupational therapy.
Methods: A total of 52 patients with hand injuries referred to the Occupational Therapy Department
at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, India, were recruited based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria.
After obtaining informed consent, participants were assessed using the Modified Hand Injury
Severity Score (MHISS), excluding the integument component: Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand
(DASH) questionnaire, and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depression. Data were
analysed using SPSS version 16, with Spearman’s correlation coefficient applied to assess
associations.
Results
The analysis revealed:
• A moderate positive correlation between activity limitation and level of depression
(r = 0.452, p = 0.001)
• A weak correlation between injury severity and activity limitation (r = 0.245, p = 0.080)
• A weak correlation between injury severity and level of depression (r = 0.174, p = 0.217)
Conclusion: The findings suggest that activity limitation is moderately associated with depressive
symptoms, emphasizing the need for holistic intervention addressing both physical and psychological
aspects of recovery. The weak associations with injury severity indicate that functional and emotional
outcomes may not be solely determined by injury grade but also by individual perception and coping
mechanisms. This highlights the role of hand therapists in providing integrated, patient-centered
care.
Key Words: Hand Injuries, Occupational Therapy, Depression, Rehabilitation, Activity Limitation,
Mental Health

Page 51

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

5. Title: The SHUEE Assessment: A Valuable Outcome Measure for Single Event Multilevel Surgery in
Paediatric Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy
Author: Aruna N
Affiliation: Ganga Medical Centre and hospital,313, Mettupalyam Road, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu –
641043
Mobile: +91-9965936447
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Background: Single event multilevel surgery has emerged as a beneficial treatment approach for
children with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy, addressing multiple musculoskeletal deformities in
a single surgical session thereby reducing the need for repeated surgeries and promoting improved
functional outcomes. The Shriners hospital upper extremity evaluation [SHUEE] is a validated
outcome measure for assessing upper limb function in children with spastic cerebral palsy.
Study Design: Retrospective study design.
Objective: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of SEML's on upper limb function in patients
with spastic cerebral palsy using the SHUEE
Materials and Methods: Children with spastic cerebral palsy who elected for SEMLS were selected.
Selected children were evaluated by SHUEE videotaping which includes spontaneous and functional
analysis, Grasp and release. After 4 weeks of immobilization Rehabilitation and functional training
were given to all children. Post operative SHUEE measures were assessed at 6 months
Results: 30 patients with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy including 21 males and 9 females
performed. SEML's. Overall SHUEE in spontaneous functional analysis improved by 32%, Dynamic
function analysis improved by 45% and Grasp and release improved by 30%
Conclusion: The SHUEE serves as a valuable outcome tool, effectively identifying impairments and
evaluating improvements in upper limb function in Indian children following intervention.
Key Words: Cerebral Palsy, Shriners Hospital Upper Extremity Evaluation, Single Event Multilevel
Surgery

6. Title: Technological Approach to measure Hand Grip Strength and Pinch Strength: Validity and
Reliability of a Bluetooth-Enabled Dynamometer in Young Healthy Adults
Authors & Affiliations: Dr. Roopa Desai, MPTh, PhD
Professor, Dr. D. Y. College of Physiotherapy, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune
Mobile: +91-9890992383
Email: [email protected]
Dr. Rutuja Malavde, MPT
Post Graduate Student, Dr. D.Y. College of Physiotherapy, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune
Mobile: +91-8108941197
Email: [email protected]

Page 52

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Dr. Tushar Palekar, MPT, Ph. D
Principal, Dr. D.Y. College of Physiotherapy, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune
Mobile: +91-9822606869
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Background: Handgrip and Pinch strength are one of the major elements affecting muscle
performance, which must be ensured in any upper extremity rehabilitation program
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the concurrent validity and intra-rater reliability of the
Bluetooth Enabled Smart Hand Dynamometer (BESHD) in assessing handgrip and pinch strength in
healthy young individuals.
Study Design: It was a cross-sectional. Observational study that was conducted at Tertiary Care
Hospital, Pune, India.
Methods: A total of 110 healthy participants were recruited in this study. Handgrip strength was
measured using both the BESHD and the Jamar Dynamometer, while pinch strength was assessed
using the BESHD and a standard Pinch Meter. Three trials were conducted for each hand (dominant
and non-dominant), with one-minute rest intervals between trials and 3–5 minutes between
instruments. The highest value across trials was recorded as the best score. Concurrent validity was
assessed using the Bland-Altman plot, and intra-rater reliability was determined using the Intraclass
Correlation Coefficient (ICC).
Results: The Jamar Dynamometer recorded higher grip strength values than BESHD for both
dominant (11.31 ± 4.59) and non-dominant (10.84 ± 4.67) hands. BESHD showed higher pinch
strength readings in most fingers compared to the Pinch Meter, except for the index finger on the non-
dominant hand. ICC for BESHD grip strength was 0.904 (dominant) and 0.861 (non-dominant), while
pinch strength ICC ranged from 0.724 to 0.887.
Conclusion: Thus, it can be concluded that the BESHD demonstrates good validity and reliability and
can serve as a practical tool for evaluating hand function in clinical settings.
Key Words: Jamar Dynamometer, Pinchmeter, Smart Phone, Bluetooth

7. Title: Validity and Reliability of Wrist Range of Motion Measurement using Markerless
Motion Capture in Healthy Adults
Author: Josephine Wong Man-Wah
ABSTRACT
Background: The Markerless motion capture (MMC) system has been applied in the format of
exercise and video game format, providing kinematic information of the joint
Angles which is ideal for movement analysis. Yet, the validity and reliability of MMC in measuring
wrist motion is still unclear; and its ability to replace the traditional goniometry method uncertain.
Study Design: This study investigated the validity and the test-retest reliability of the New Rayknot
MMC system (ABILITY AI PTE. Ltd., Singapore) developed by Nanyang Technological University

Page 53

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

(NTU) (Raynote 1.1.6) (MMC) with comparison to measurement using universal goniometer (UG)
and the marker-based Vicon Kinetic System (VICON).
Objectives: This study evaluated the concurrent and criterion validities as well as the test-retest
reliability in the measurement of the active wrist motion tracked by the MMC.
Methods: Participants’ three maximum active ranges of left and right flexion-
Extension, radial-ulnar deviation and pronation-supination of the wrist were measured by the
universal goniometer, the VICON and the MMC simultaneously in the first session and measured by
the MMC only in the second session for test-retest reliability. The average values of the three
measurement results by the three methods were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation, independent
t test and intraclass correlation coefficients.
Results: Out of the 38 healthy participants recruited, the results of 23 participants were used. Results
showed satisfactory criterion validity of the results measured by the MMC with comparison to the
results measured by VICON in flexion (right – r=0.83, p<.05; left –r=0.91, p<.05); extension (right
– r=0.96, p<.05); and radial deviation (right – r=0.62, p<.05;left – r=0.68, p<.05). There was
inconsistency in concurrent validity of the MMC against the results measured by the universal
goniometer and the MMC. Test-retest reliability of the MMC Measurement results at two-time
intervals were good with r ranging from 0.3 to 0.99, ICC from 0.44 to 0.96, except left extension.
Conclusion: Differences in the types of data and measurement methods with different technologies
among the three measurement systems contributed to the findings. The MMC technology has the
potential to replace the universal goniometry in clinical measurement of wrist motions in the future.
Key Words: Markerless Motion Capture, Wrist Range of Motion, Validity and Reliability
Rayknot MMC System

8. Title: Preliminary Findings from a Progressive Post-Operative Protocol Allowing Immediate
Forearm Rotation and Graduated Wrist Motion At 2 Weeks Following Combined Scaphotriquetral
Capsulodesis and Dorsal Peripheral TFCC Repair
Author: Rosanne Cross
Co Authors: Ms Deearna Bakker, Mr Jeffrey Ecker
Institution /Hospital: The Hand and Upper Limb Centre
Country: Australia
Phone: +61431037510
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Introduction: A protocol of post-operative rehabilitation following combined scaphotriquetral
capsulodesis and dorsal peripheral TFCC repair, that allows immediate forearm rotation and
graduated wrist motion exercises from 2 weeks. This protocol aims to facilitate differential tendon
glide, enhance proprioceptive feedback, improve scar mobility, and further encourage normal
movement patterns

Page 54

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

To allow earlier return to functional use.
Methods: 6 patients with a scapholunate tear arthroscopically repaired with a scaphotriquetral
Capsulodesis and dorsal distal peripheral repair were treated post operatively in a forearm-based
wrist immobilisation orthosis. Forearm rotation commenced day 1 post surgery, followed by a
graduated wrist AROM program with Dart Throwers Motion (DTM) commencing at 2 weeks.
Progression of wrist AROM was guided by a hand therapist and increased by 15 degrees weekly, with
orthosis wean at 6 weeks.
Hagert’s (2010) proprioceptive rehabilitation stages are incorporated into this program with the
commencement of targeted isometric exercises of the distal radio-ulna joint and scapholunate
stabilisers from week 3 post surgery. A comprehensive post-operative proprioceptive rehabilitation
pathway with targeted isometric and dynamic strengthening initially of PQ followed by ADM, FDM,
FCR, ECU, APL/B and ECRL/B at 5 weeks supports the functioning and stability of the carpus
(Esplugas et al., 2023). Strength (gross grip, lateral pinch, weight bear, prono-supination), AROM and
subjective function using the Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) and the
Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) were captured pre-operatively and at 3-6- and
12-month intervals.
Results: Preliminary findings are promising, showing positive results. On average, after 5.4 Months,
there were improvements in active pronation (6%), lateral pinch strength (18%), and prono-
supination strength (22% and 32%, respectively) compared to pre-operative measures. Post-
operatively, patients demonstrated an average gross grip strength of 23.5 kilograms, a lateral pinch
strength of 8 kilograms, and a weight-bearing capacity of 18 kilograms. Both DASH and PRWE scores
showed reductions, reflecting functional gains of
9% and 18%, respectively. Patients achieved over 73% of the contralateral AROM for all
Measures, except for wrist flexion, which was at 65%.
Summary Points: This protocol describes a treatment approach for patients following combined
scaphotriquetral Ligamentous repair and dorsal distal peripheral TFCC repair, using a below elbow
orthosis, Allowing graduated wrist active range of motion program at 2 weeks post operatively. This
protocol Has shown promising preliminary clinical findings with research currently underway to
evaluate its Longer-term effectiveness in a larger sample size that will be reflected in the final results.

9. Title: Early Mobilization and Physiotherapy Techniques for Addressing Complications in High-
TBSA Upper Extremity Burns: From Acute Care to Functional Independence - A Case Study
Author: Ho Wing Kelvin Fung
Mr Ho Wing Kelvin Fung
Email: [email protected]
Mobile: +85253983307
Institution / Hospital: Prince of Wales Hospital
Country: Hong Kong S.A.R.

Page 55

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

ABSTRACT
Introduction: Severe upper limb burns can result in long-term complications such as joint stiffness,
muscle atrophy, and psychological distress, significantly affecting quality of life and daily functioning.
This case study examines the rehabilitation of a 49-year-old male with 43.5% total body surface area
(TBSA) burns, highlighting the importance of early mobilization and physiotherapy to prevent
contractures and impaired function. The goal is to enhance management strategies for severe upper
limb burns, which often yield poor outcomes due to co-morbidities.
Materials and Methods: The patient sustained burns following a suicide attempt in July 2023, with
second-degree burns on his face, torso, and left upper arm, and third-degree burns on both forearms
and thighs. Surgical interventions included fasciotomy, skin grafting, and amputation of the right little
finger due to necrosis. Initial assessments revealed significant range of motion (ROM) limitations:
bilateral shoulder flexion restricted to 130 degrees and elbow flexion contractures of 20 degrees.
Rehabilitation aimed to minimize scar formation, prevent contractures, and retrain functional
independence.
Results: A comprehensive rehabilitation program was implemented, incorporating early
mobilization exercises to improve ROM and prevent stiffness. Active ROM exercises such as wall
climbing and shoulder pulley activities were introduced alongside passive ROM exercises during scar
maturation. Scar management techniques like massage and compression therapy enhanced skin
pliability. Electrotherapeutic modalities such as Class 3B laser therapy and extracorporeal shock
wave therapy (ESWT) promoted healing. Strengthening exercises improved muscle power, while
aerobic activities enhanced cardiovascular fitness. Psychological support through counselling and
support groups facilitated emotional recovery.
Conclusion: By 1.5 years post-injury, the patient achieved significant improvements in ROM and
functionality, including nearly full shoulder flexion (160 degrees) and full elbow flexion/extension.
Despite the finger amputation, he regained fine motor skills for daily tasks. Psychosocially, he engaged
with support groups and pursued vocational training, demonstrating successful reintegration into
community life. The rehabilitation program effectively minimized scar formation and contractures
while improving functional recovery and overall quality of life.

Posters

1. Title: Flaccidity to Functionality of the Upper Extremity in Stroke Patients: A Retrospective Case
Series
Author: Eshani Mallick (Lecturer, Occupational Therapy, AIIPMR, Mumbai) Affiliation No-A-05630
Mobile: +91-9681618781
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT

Page 56

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) defines stroke as "rapidly developing clinical
signs of focal (or global) disturbance of cerebral function, lasting more than 24 hours or leading to
death, with no apparent cause other than that of vascular origin. "Stroke is now the fourth leading
cause of death and the fifth leading cause of disability. Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in optimizing
upper limb function, improving activity of daily living, and quality of life in patients with stroke.
However limited research
Exists on the progress of recovery of the upper extremity after case-specific intervention in the Indian
Context.
Objective: The primary objective of this retrospective case series is to explore and describe the
phase-wise recovery of upper extremity function in adult stroke patients, with particular emphasis
on the transition from flaccidity to voluntary movement and functional use in a tertiary care centre.
Methods: This retrospective study reviewed clinical records of adult stroke patients admitted for
rehabilitation between 2024 and 2025 at a tertiary PMR center in India.
Inclusion criteria included: (1) initial Presentation with upper limb flaccidity (2) a minimum
rehabilitation duration of 6 months (3) Age: -18-50 years, diagnosis of a first-ever unilateral stroke
without restriction on time from lesion.
Exclusion Criteria included: (1) Diagnosis of other neurological /psychiatric diseases in addition to
stroke. Data was extracted regarding demographic details, stroke characteristics (type, side, severity),
and rehabilitation interventions. Recovery will be tracked using the Brunnstrom Staging of Motor
Recovery, Modified Ashworth Scale (to assess tone), and Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity Assessment.
Written Consent was taken from the patients for publishing their images.
Results: The majority (59%) reached the pre-functional phase within 3 months, while only 33%
attained consistent functional use of the upper limb by 6 months. Functional outcomes were
positively correlated with therapy intensity and patient engagement.
Conclusion: The findings emphasize the need for early rehabilitation, ongoing reassessment, and
long-term support to optimize outcomes. Moreover, this study contributes valuable evidence from
the Indian context and supports the development of context-specific rehabilitation pathways for
upper extremity recovery in stroke survivors.
Key Words: Upper Extremity Rehabilitation, Stroke Recovery, Phase-wise Motor Recovery, Flaccidity
to Functionality, Occupational Therapy in Stroke, Brunnstrom Staging

2. Title: Enhancing Hand Function Post-Crush Injury Through Occupational Therapy:
A Case Report Study
Authors: Gauri Nishikant Kulkarni
Mobile: +91-9930121359
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
ABSTRACT

Page 57

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

A 36-year-old male, right hand dominant, sustained a severe, work-related sugarcane machine
crushing injury. Radiographic evaluation revealed fracture of the proximal phalanges of index, middle
and ring fingers. Injury presented with extensive soft tissue damage, edema and joint stiffness. Post-
surgical management included immobilization followed by structured occupational therapy program
focusing on edema control, skincare, scar management, pain management, range of motion and
strengthening exercises, ADL functions and orthosis. Clients' priorities were participation in Basic
ADLS, reduction in pain and swelling, and return back to work. The essential components of
management are, accurate assessment of the injury and both patient-rated and performance-based
outcome measures are being used to assess the recovery. The poster is a concise synthesis of the
fundamental principles which an occupational therapist must understand while undertaking these
challenging cases.
Key Words: Crush Injury, Occupational Therapy, ADLS, Outcome Measures

3. Title: AI x Healthcare: Purpose-Driven Innovation
Author: Dr Vrushali Prabhakar Jadhav
Qualification: Masters of Occupational therapy in Musculoskeletal Sciences
Affiliation: Clinical Occupational therapist at District Hospital Sindhudurg
Mobile: +91-8691941521
Email: [email protected]
Address: Lower Parel, Mumbai
ABSTRACT
Background: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare by automating processes,
supporting clinical decision-making, and enhancing accessibility.
Objective: To explore the mechanism, benefits, challenges, and ethical implications of AI in
healthcare, with a focus on its role in achieving Progress with Purpose.
Method: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, BMC Medical Education, India
AI, and Harvard Medical School resources to identify evidence about AI’s impact on healthcare
delivery.
Results: AI offers 30-40% faster diagnosis, improves accuracy by up to 20%, and supports equitable
care in underserved areas. However, data privacy, algorithmic bias, and trust remain challenges.
Human-centered AI models that uphold transparency, accountability, and empathy are essential.
Conclusion: When used responsibly, AI can empower therapists and clinicians to focus on
meaningful patient-centered care, aligning technology with compassion to achieve a healthier future.
Key Words: Artificial Intelligence, Healthcare, Ethics, Human-Centered Care

4. Title: Facilitating Hand Dominance Transfer with Pencil Gripper in post Right trans radial
Amputation for Handwriting Training: A Case Report
Authors: Ms Chetna Balie BOT

Page 58

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Dr. Pragyan Singh PhD OT
Dr. Anurupa Senapati, PhD OT
Correspondence Address: 3/459 M P colony near Ganesh Mandir Lalgarh, Bikaner, Rajasthan Pin
Code-334001
Mobile: +91-8290839161, +91-7339909534
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Background: Handwriting is a vital daily living skill that can be significantly affected in the
amputation. Right-hand amputation people often face double challenges that is to carry out the
function of dominant hand with non-dominant hand and to accomplish bimanual tasks with less
dexterous non-dominant hand.
Study Design: Single subject intervention study
Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of handwriting training with a pencil gripper in improving
handwriting performance of non-dominant hand in right trans radial amputation
Methods: A 46-years-male underwent electric burn 15% TBSA on December 2024, subsequently
developed impending gangrene of right hand - distal forearm, leading to Trans radial amputation. He
is a farmer and done his education till 10th grade, knows how to write in English and Oriya. He
regularly documents his daily task in diary, including details like his daily expenses as handwriting
plays an important role in his routine.
He finds difficulty in doing activities from his non-dominant hand such as writing, handling farming
equipment and signing documents
Modified Edinburg Handedness Inventory is used to assess the dominance.
Pre-post-test is assessed by Handwriting Assessment Battery for Adults version 6 for pen control,
manipulation, speed, legibility, handwriting appearance and satisfaction index.
Trained with Handwriting for heroes by Kathleen E. Yancosek a commercially available workbook for
handwriting in adults with 6-week training protocol.
Results: Post-test shows significant results in all domains of Handwriting Assessment Battery for
Adults
Conclusion: Handwriting training with a pencil gripper is an effective intervention to enhance
dexterity and handwriting ability in the non-dominant hand following dominant hand amputation.
The intervention can be integrated into occupational therapy programs to promote independence in
daily living activities. Though results are promising, further research with a larger sample size is
recommended to validate these findings.
Key Words: Handwriting, Non-Dominant Hand, Pencil Gripper, Hand Dominance Transfer

5. Title: Correlation Between Hand Grip Strength and Glycemic Control Amongst Chronic Type 2
Diabetes Mellitus Population
Author: Nistha Mishra

Page 59

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Co-Author: Prof. T. S. Veeragoudhaman
Affiliation: SRM College of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, SRMIST,
Kattankulathur
Mobile: +91-81148 81718
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is an advancing metabolic disease with chronic
hyperglycemia due to insulin resistance and impaired β-cell function. As prevalence rises worldwide
and also particularly in India where estimated prevalence exceeds 134 million by 2045, T2DM creates
a high public health burden. In addition to its now well-defined vascular complications, diabetes also
affects skeletal muscle function, resulting in functional impairment and decreased quality of life.
Upper limb and overall muscle function, as measured by hand grip strength, a simple and robust
measure, has been proposed in recent literature as a promising surrogate marker of metabolic health.
Its utility in the prediction of frailty, sarcopenia, and cardiovascular outcomes has been amply
demonstrated. Yet, its relationship with glycemic control, and notably in patients with chronic T2DM,
is not sufficiently examined. Exploring this correlation can provide new perspectives on the
application of physical strength measures in early diagnosis and integrated management of diabetes
complications.
Aim and Objectives
Primary Aim: To compare hand grip strength with glycemic control in adults with chronic Type 2
Diabetes Mellitus, as measured by hand dynamometry and hba1c testing.
Objectives:
• To quantify hand grip strength with a standardized technique using a Jamar handheld
dynamometer.
• To establish the extent of glycemic control by hba1c testing.
• To examine the statistical correlation between grip strength and control of glycemia.
• To determine whether grip strength has the utility as a screening test for inadequate metabolic
regulation.
Method:
• Study Design: Institutional-based correlational observational study
• Sampling Method: Systematic random sampling
• Sample Size: 193 subjects (with a 10% contingency, total n = 212)
• Study Setting: SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu,
India
Inclusion Criteria:
• Adults aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of chronic T2DM
• All gender individuals who give informed consent
• Participants who can conduct hand grip assessment

Page 60

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Exclusion Criteria:
• Individuals with cognitive or visual impairment
• Participants having painful upper limb disorders, palmar skin disorders, or neuromuscular
disorders that impact grip strength
• Patients having burns, scars, or religious fasting
Procedure: Subjects complete anthropometric measurement (weight, height, BMI) and then grip
strength evaluation with a Jamar dynamometer according to the standards of ASHT. Grip strength is
tested three times in each hand with alternate testing and sufficient rest to prevent fatigue. Blood
draws are taken to evaluate hba1c values.

Current Status of the Study: Currently, the data-gathering process is in progress, and the full results
will become available upon completion of the study. Nonetheless, an interim analysis of part of the
sample population will be performed and reported at the oral paper presentation to enable early
insight and preliminary trends. This preliminary analysis will assist in putting the current research
in context and enable discussion of its potential clinical applicability.
Expected Outcomes and Significance: This research postulates that reduced hand grip strength would
be correlated with worse glycemic control as indicated by higher levels of hba1c. In case a statistically
significant relationship is found, hand grip strength may be an affordable, low-cost screening test for
marking people at risk for diabetes complications. This may prompt the inclusion of strength testing
in the regular care for diabetes and facilitate more tailored management strategies, particularly in
settings with limited resources.
In addition to this, this research also aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS):
• Goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
• Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
Key Words: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Hand Grip Strength, Glycemic Control, hba1c, Muscle Strength,
Chronic Disease, Physical Function, Non-Invasive Screening, Diabetes Complications, Observational
Study

6. Title: Assessment and Rehabilitation for a Patient with Concurrent Traumatic Ulnar and Median
Nerve Injury: A Case Study
Author: Mr Ho Wing Kelvin Fung
Mobile: +85253988307
Email: [email protected]
Institution/Hospital: Prince of Wales Hospital
Country: Hong Kong S.A.R.
ABSTRACT
Background: Traumatic nerve injuries can lead to significant functional impairments, particularly in
older adults. This case study focuses on a 69-year-old male construction worker who sustained

Page 61

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

severe lacerations to the left cubital fossa and right anterior ankle from a saw blade, resulting in
complex median and ulnar nerve injuries.
Method: The patient underwent surgical intervention, which included vascular repair, nerve
suturing, and neuroplasty. The left elbow wound revealed complete cuts of the median nerve with an
8 cm gap, as well as injuries to the ulnar nerve and radial arteries. A comprehensive rehabilitation
program was developed post-surgery, emphasizing mobility training, sensory motor charting,
cortical reorganization, electrical stimulation and prevention of secondary deformities.
Results: Post-operative assessments indicated significant motor and sensory deficits in the affected
limbs. The rehabilitation strategy involved electrical stimulation techniques and progressive hand
function training. Despite these efforts, the prognosis remained poor due to the age of the patient, the
extent of nerve damage, and the surgical complexity. Expectations were managed regarding recovery
potential, with a focus on improving quality of life rather than full functional restoration.
Conclusion: This case underscores the challenges in managing traumatic nerve injuries in elderly
patients. While surgical intervention is critical, effective rehabilitation is essential for maximizing
functional outcomes. Future strategies may include secondary reconstructive procedures to address
persistent deficits. The case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in optimizing
recovery and addressing psychosocial factors associated with traumatic injuries.

Mini Movie

1. Title: Turning the Ordinary into Extraordinary
Author: Dr. Akshata Prashant Gamare, Dr. Shilpshree Palsule
Affiliation: Occupational Therapist (BOT), MOT(Pursuing) University: Maharashtra University of
Health Science (MUHS), Nashik
Mobile: +91-7738613027
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
This short educational film highlights the innovative use of everyday household items as therapeutic
tools in occupational therapy for hand rehabilitation. It demonstrates how common objects can
support exercises that improve hand strength, coordination, dexterity, and functional movement.
Designed for therapists, students, and caregivers, the film emphasizes creativity and accessibility in
therapy, showing that effective rehabilitation doesn’t always require expensive equipment. By using
low-cost, readily available materials, the film promotes a patient-centered approach that can be easily
implemented in both clinical and home settings, encouraging resourcefulness and adaptability in
meeting therapeutic goals. It’s therapy made simple, effective, and inspiring.

2. Title: Beyond Exercise: The Power of Purposeful Activity in Hand Therapy
Author: Siddhesh Khandagale, Dr. Shilpshree Palsule

Page 62

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Affiliation: Occupational Therapist (BOT), MOT – Musculoskeletal Sciences (Pursuing) University:
Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS), Nashik
Mobile: +91-9987231073
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
This educational film documents the powerful role of purposeful, client-centred activities in
promoting functional recovery of the hand following injury. It highlights how everyday tasks—when
creatively adapted—can serve not only as meaningful engagement but also as targeted therapeutic
interventions. By integrating these symbolic and routine activities into a client’s rehabilitation
process, the film illustrates how therapy can enhance motivation, restore confidence, and support the
achievement of individualized functional goals. Rather than relying solely on conventional exercises,
the film showcases how real-life tasks can be strategically used to improve range of motion, strength,
coordination, and dexterity. Through a narrative approach, the film captures the client’s journey,
emphasizing the emotional, psychological, and functional benefits of embedding therapy into daily
life. Ultimately, it reinforces the value of holistic, occupation-based rehabilitation in hand therapy,
aligning with the principles of meaningful participation and client empowerment in recovery.

3. Title: 3D Printing Custom Adaptive Devices for Functional Independence
Author: Dr. Vinoth Kumar T.
Affiliation: MOT (Hand & Musculoskeletal Conditions)

Assistant Professor, Institute of Occupational Therapy, Srinivas University, Mangalore.
Mobile: +91-87469 17704
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
This mini movie showcases the transformative role of 3D printing in the field of hand therapy,
highlighting its use in designing low-cost, custom adaptive devices. In resource-limited settings like
India, traditional assistive tools are often inaccessible or non-specific. Through this visual narrative,
we demonstrate how occupational therapists can harness 3D modelling software and affordable
materials to create patient-specific tools that restore independence in daily activities. The film blends
real-world application, clinical reasoning, and hands-on fabrication to promote innovation in
rehabilitation.

Innovative Technology

1. Name: Innovative Above Elbow Prosthesis: Power and Body Synergy
Author: Dr. Hemant Dattatray Gawali, Dr. Shilpshree Palsule

Page 63

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Affiliation: BOT, (Musculoskeletal Sciences) – Seth G.S. Medical College & MOT KEM Hospital
(Pursuing)
Mobile: +91-7666705903
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
The aim of the product developed is to improve the conditions of the amputees and to help them find
independence and dignity. The prostheses are designed to be used by upper limb amputees
(unilateral Above elbow amputation). Unfortunately, current high-tech prostheses are too costly and
it is difficult for patients to buy an adapted prosthesis. By using new technologies, our aim is to
propose a new tool with a lower cost and better comfort for use by the amputees.

2. Name: Design and Development of a Custom-Made 3D Printed Dynamic Adaptive Spoon
Author: Dr. Vinoth Kumar T.
Affiliation: MOT (Hand & Musculoskeletal Conditions)
Assistant Professor, Institute of Occupational Therapy, Srinivas university, Mangalore.
Mobile: +91-87469 17704
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Background and Objectives: Adaptive utensils help individuals with upper limb challenges eat more
independently. In settings like India, where personalized tools are often hard to access, this project
introduces a custom 3D-printed dynamic spoon designed for those with limited hand function due to
neurological or Orthopaedic conditions.
Methods with Scientific Reasoning Based on individual assessments, a dynamic adaptive spoon
was designed using 3D modelling tools (Tinkercad). It features adjustable angles, flexible joints, and
an ergonomic handle to support users with limited pinch strength or movement. Made from
affordable, eco-friendly PLA material, the spoon was refined through user feedback to ensure comfort
and ease of use.
Implications in Hand Therapy
The dynamic adaptive spoon highlights how 3D printing can help hand therapists create personalized
tools for patients with motor challenges. By combining technology with clinical insight, therapists
can move beyond off-the-shelf solutions to deliver customized care—especially valuable in resource-
limited settings. This approach supports function, fosters creativity, and empowers both therapists
and patients.

3. Name: Casting Motion to Mobilise Stiffness (CMMS)- Experience with Hand Injury Patients in an
Indian Clinical Setting
Author: Pratha Mehta (PT)

Page 64

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Affiliation: BPTh, MPTh, Consultant at Jaslok Hospital
Mobile: +91-8928475928
Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Joint stiffness is one of the most frustrating barriers to hand function post-injury or surgery. As a
hand therapist, the options to restore range/function in chronically stiff hands are limited. Aggressive
physiotherapy fails us most often. Even then, aggressive mobilisation is widely practiced. The CMMS
concept developed by Judy Colditz is an effective technique to restore mobility/function. This
technique involves fabricating custom plaster casts that allow controlled, graded movement of
supporting tissues while gently encouraging mobility. Outcomes include reduced oedema and
adhesion formation, early reactivation of motor patterns, and improved range and function. We’ve
used this approach in tendon repairs, post-fracture rehabilitation, etc, with consistently positive
results. Casting is no longer just about immobilisation. It is a dynamic process designed to mobilise
stiffness and inspire recovery. Let’s rethink casting, not as a restraint, but as a bridge back to motion.

Essay

1. Title: Progress with Purpose
Author: Akshata Prashant Gamare
1
, Dr. Shilpshree Palsule
Affiliation:
1
Occupational Therapist (BOT), Pursuing MOT from Maharashtra University of Health
Science (MUHS), Nashik
Mobile: +91-7738613027
Email: [email protected]

Our hands are one of the most important parts of our body. From the moment we wake up to the time
we sleep, our hands are constantly at work. They help us perform a wide range of tasks whether
physical, emotional, social, or creative. From buttoning a shirt to feeding a child, from painting a
picture to offering a comforting touch, our hands express what words sometimes cannot. Through
gestures, touch, and movement, they help us communicate, care, and connect with the world. When
a person loses hand function due to injury, surgery, or illness, it can deeply affect their life. That’s
where occupational therapy comes in. OT looks at the person as a whole body, mind, and role in
society and helps them get back to meaningful activities. In hand rehabilitation, the aim is not just to
restore movement but also to bring back independence, dignity, and purpose to a person’s life.
The theme "Progress with Purpose" captures this perfectly. Recovery isn’t only about strength or
mobility it’s about helping a person return to what truly matters to them. For example, a mother
recovering from a wrist fracture doesn’t want wrist movement just for clinical goals. She wants to
hold her baby again, cook for her family, and return to her job. In this case, the occupational therapist

Page 65

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

listens to her goals and creates a therapy plan that is meaningful to her life. That is the true essence
of progress with purpose.
Recovery from hand injuries is not easy. It can be slow and painful. Patients may feel frustrated, tired,
or hopeless at times. What keeps them motivating is knowing the purpose behind their therapy. When
people understand how a simple hand exercise helps them achieve a personal goal like writing again,
dressing on their own, or working they are more motivated to continue. The therapy session becomes
more than just a routine it becomes a step toward their dream. Also, therapy doesn't have to happen
only inside the clinic. It can continue at home and in the community. One of the strengths of
occupational therapy is its ability to use simple and creative tools from everyday life. Thus, low-cost
tools make therapy accessible. At the same time, we live in the age of Evidence-Based Practice. That
means our treatment
Plans are not based only on experience or guesswork they are based on research, results, and what
has worked before. Therapists today refer to trusted sources like OTSeeker, Pedro, Google Scholar,
PubMed, and Cochrane reviews to guide their therapy. This helps them choose the best techniques
for different hand injuries like tendon repairs, nerve injuries, arthritis, or distal radius fractures.
Technology has also entered the field in a big way. Tools like virtual reality, robotic gloves, and sensor-
based devices are helping patients recover hand function in new ways. These tools can track
movement, give feedback, and make therapy more engaging. However, technology should match the
person, their culture, daily needs, and lifestyle. A fancy robotic glove is of no use if it doesn’t help a
farmer get back to holding a tool or a tailor to sew. So even with
Technology, the purpose behind therapy must remain clear.
Another major change is the use of digital platforms like YouTube. These videos allow patients to
learn and practice exercises at home, which is especially useful for people in rural or remote areas.
They are free and available anytime, helping patients stay consistent with their home programs.
Videos also help people who learn better through seeing than reading. However, this also has
limitations. Most YouTube videos are general, not customized to the patient’s specific problem or
recovery stage. Without therapist supervision, there is a risk of Doing exercises incorrectly, which can
lead to more pain or injury. Some online content is not
Made by professionals and may give wrong advice. Also, not everyone has access to Smartphones, the
internet, or understands English. So, while videos can be helpful, they should Support therapy does
not replace it.
In the early phase of rehabilitation, pain is often a bigger concern for patients than stiffness or
weakness. Pain affects sleep, daily function, and motivation. That’s why managing pain is a top
priority. Therapists use methods like hot packs, cold therapy, TENS, joint protection tips, and
relaxation techniques to reduce pain. But unfortunately, many of these treatments are available only
in private clinics. Public hospitals or rural centers often lack the equipment or trained therapists. As
a result, poor patients are unable to get proper pain relief, which delays their recovery. To make
therapy fair and accessible for all, we must promote low-cost pain relief options like using a warm

Page 66

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

towel and a cold-water soak. Teaching patients simple home strategies is a powerful way to manage
pain and continue therapy without heavy expenses. Affordable therapy doesn’t mean poor therapy it
means thoughtful and resourceful care. Another important need is to raise awareness about hand
rehabilitation. Many people do not know that hand therapy exists or that it can help them return to
normal life. They ignore
Pain, stiffness, or deformity, thinking it will get better on its own. Delayed care often leads to long-
term disability. Through health camps, social media, workshops, and community talks, we can spread
awareness about early treatment, therapy options, and the role of Occupational therapists. This
awareness will help people seek help sooner and prevent complications.
The idea of progress with purpose also applies to learning and growth as therapists. The hand is one
of the most complex parts of the body, involving bones, muscles, nerves, skin, and function all at once.
To treat it well, therapists need more than textbook knowledge. They need real-world experience,
empathy, creativity, and patient-centered thinking. By listening to patient stories, observing their
challenges, and facing real therapy scenarios, Students and professionals can grow into purposeful
practitioners. In the end, every hand we rehabilitate tells a unique story. It may be the hand of a child
learning to write again, a grandmother who wants to cook for her grandchildren, or a carpenter who
dreams of working again. Occupational therapists walk with these individuals through their recovery
journey, planning each step with care, compassion, and clear goals. Because progress, when made
with purpose, doesn’t just heal it transforms lives.

2. Title: Progress with Purpose
Author: Pratha Mehta (PT) BPTh, MPTh,
Affiliation: Consultant at Jaslok Hospital
Mobile: +91-8928475928
Email: [email protected]

I had a tough time finding my purpose in life. As a kid, I struggled to make friends, I felt unlucky,
underconfident & undeserving. After 12th grade, I struggled with clarity on which field to pursue.
After stumbling upon the physiotherapy profession by accident, I joined the course without really
knowing what I was getting into.
I completed my graduation, yet the emptiness lingered. I struggled again with understanding where
I fit within the profession. So, I did the next obvious thing- enrol in post-graduation, hoping it would
give me direction. After completing post-graduation, the struggle still continued. I finally had to face
the truth that, despite being academically bright, I never loved treating patients. It felt like a betrayal
of everything I was supposed to feel as a clinician. Then I struggled some more in switching between
jobs, planning to take up academics etc. The sense of disconnect persisted over a few years, until I
slowly began gravitating back toward clinical practice, not out of obligation this time, but out of
curiosity. And that’s when something shifted. I noticed something that hadn’t caught my attention

Page 67

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

before. I noticed the struggle chronic hand injury patients face- their unique pain, not just physical
but emotional. Their struggles weren’t limited to stiffness or loss of function. They also battled
invisible wounds: a deep sense of frustration, helplessness, and sometimes even suicidal tendencies
due to aesthetic reasons. Some avoided social gatherings because of how their hand looked. Others
cried in therapy sessions, not because of pain, but because they couldn’t lift their child or write their
name. What struck me more deeply was another recurring problem: the struggle patients faced with
physiotherapists themselves, therapists who didn’t have the knowledge or experience to treat hands
appropriately. I’ve seen distal radius fractures being mobilized so aggressively that the patient ended
up with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). The irony was painful- the therapy intended to heal
had made the condition worse. And this isn’t rare. It’s far too common. As physiotherapists, we
assume that treating hand injuries is easy, after all how difficult could it be to treat such a small area?
Even I once thought, “It’s just a hand, how hard can it be?”
Ask around anywhere in India and you’ll find countless workshops on knees, shoulders, spines,
ankles- all vital, all necessary. But how often have you seen a room full of therapists eager to master
the intricacies of hand rehabilitation? Rarely. And if such a workshop did exist, it probably had more
empty seats than participants.
Why? Because hand injuries are widely underestimated.
But I’ve learned that even the simplest hand fracture can have life-altering consequences. A poorly
managed hand injury doesn’t just hurt; it disables. It robs a person of their grip, their precision, their
independence. The very things we use to express love, to earn a living, to care for others-they’re all in
our hands.
With the theme- Progress with Purpose, whose progress are we talking about?
Is it the patients? The profession’s? Or our own as therapists?
The answer is: all of the above.
Progress is multi-layered. My own journey, from disinterest to dedication, is one form of progress.
The healing of my patients, whose lives were transformed with precise and compassionate therapy,
is another. And then there’s the larger, collective progress- the slow but steady emergence of hand
therapy as a recognized specialty, worthy of attention, investment, and mastery.
Progress and purpose go hand in hand. I found my purpose in treating hand patients. Over a few
months, I transformed myself from a musculoskeletal physiotherapist to a specialised hand therapist.
I learnt- as much as possible. I treated patients- as much as possible. I collaborated with seniors- as
much as possible. I found my purpose through this field. And I wish to create progress for all my
patients and in the field of hand therapy.
If I could choose something to dedicate myself to, I would choose this field all over again.
There’s something profoundly humbling about working with hands, not just treating them, but truly
understanding them. These complex, delicate structures are often taken for granted. And sadly, so is
the field of hand therapy.

Page 68

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Judy Colditz, a pioneering hand therapist I deeply admire, once said: “If you don’t know how to treat
the hand, more harm can come to the hand by the hands of the therapist than the injury itself.”
The legendary hand surgeon Dr. Alfred Swanson echoed this sentiment: “If a hand fracture is not
treated, it develops a deformity. If it is over-treated, it develops stiffness. If it is poorly treated, it
develops both deformity and stiffness.”
Hand therapy is not just another branch of physiotherapy. It is a specialized skill set, born of deep
study, sharp observation, and refined technique. Every tendon glide, every mobilisation technique,
every clinical reasoning, it matters immensely.
It’s easy to delay hand therapy. It’s tempting to try generic treatment approaches. But here’s the truth:
• Neglect your therapy, and you risk lifelong stiffness.
• Delay it, and you lose precious recovery time.
• Overdo it, and the hand rebels in rigidity.
• Get it wrong, and you’re left with both deformity and dysfunction.

This is why I’ve committed myself to this path. I found joy in precision, in subtle progressions, and in
the art of doing just enough- not too little, not too much.
Because just like a gynaecologist can’t double as a paediatrician, a general physiotherapist cannot
double as a hand therapist.
The hands demand a therapist who speaks their language, and I’ve chosen to be fluent.
This field may be niche. It may be overlooked. But in these precise, purposeful movements, in the
quiet triumph of a hand that can finally write, cook, or hold a loved one again- I find purpose, every
single day. And this purposeful act of service helps my profession progress.

3. Title: Progress with Purpose
Author: Vrushali Prabhakar Jadhav
Qualification: Masters of Occupational Therapy in Musculoskeletal Sciences
Affiliation: Clinical Occupational Therapist at District Hospital Sindhudurg
Mobile: +91-8691941521
Email: [email protected]

Let us go back to the time between 1861 and 1865- the era of the American Civil War. Many soldiers
suffered wrist and hand fractures due to gunshots and rifle injuries. Back then, Hand injuries were
not given special attention, and very little documentation exists on how these were treated. By World
War I, not much had changed. Treatment mainly involved draining Infections, amputations, and
wound closures. Occupational therapists and physical therapists were not actively involved; their
roles were limited or often ignored. Things began to change significantly during World War II. Under
the leadership of Surgeon Major General Norman, Interest in reparative hand surgery increased. The

Page 69

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

need for faster and better recovery of soldiers led to a shift in how therapy was delivered.
Occupational therapists started with using arts and
Crafts like baking, weaving, and pottery for rehabilitation, eventually translating them into Job-
related activities. As therapy moved from crafts to more functional occupations, there was a high
demand for therapists to treat those with physical impairments. These creative modalities were not
only therapeutic for restoring upper limb function but also instrumental in addressing psychological
trauma and promoting a sense of purpose. This shift marked the beginning of modern, purposeful
rehabilitation. Creative methods were still used, but now with a clear goal: to prepare the individual
for real-life roles and work again. Over time, this laid the foundation for organized hand
rehabilitation. We saw the formation of major organizations: ASSH (American Society for Surgery of
the Hand) in 1946, IFSSH (International Federation of Societies for surgery of the Hand) in 1968,
ASHT (American Society of Hand Therapists) in 1978, IFSHT (International Federation of Societies
for Hand Therapy) in 1986. The depth and quality of lived experience of pioneering hand surgeons
and therapists that is readily available to us in the
Literature influences every facet of Hand Rehabilitation today. Those who had the vision to create our
unique medical specialty put us in a position to see old problems with fresh eyes and invited us to
use our creativity to find new ways to help our patients. (Willard Helen S, 1993; Skirven Terri M,
2011; Willard Helen S, 1997)
When approaching a client who has an injured hand, the Occupational therapist
Gathers information about the client's occupational history regarding how their hand injury may
interfere with the resumption of meaningful occupation. The hand evaluation consists of 1) Assessing
the client's occupational profile to help the therapist to select an effective intervention as per the
client's priorities 2) Assessing client factors such as sensory function,
Neuromusculoskeletal and movement-related functions and hand and related structures. It is crucial
to identify physical limitations such as loss of range of motion, functional limitations, such as inability
to perform daily tasks, substitution patterns used to compensate for loss of sensibility or motor
function, and abnormalities such as a joint contracture. 3) Assessing specific
Performance Skills, such as the ability to handle and manipulate objects used in the Activities of daily
Living, work, or leisure (American Occupational Therapy Association, 2020). Standardized
Assessment Tools also provide objective measures of function that can be used to track pre-post
functional status. Evaluating both the client's occupational profile and performance skills ensures
that their priorities are addressed and makes the intervention more meaningful. Hand therapists are
uniquely trained in biomechanics, tissue healing, splinting, and functional training. Our skill lies not
just in clinical knowledge but in our creative, empathetic, and occupation-focused approach. We’ve
seen a paradigm shift: Tendon Injuries: From prolonged immobilization to early active mobilization
protocols that promote glide, prevent adhesions, and improve functional outcomes (Tang J. B, 2018).
Fractures: Transition from the RICE (Rest-Ice-Compression-Elevation) protocol to POLICE

Page 70

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

(Protect-Optimal Loading-Ice-Compression-Elevation), encouraging safe loading to stimulate
Healing (Bleakley, C. M et al, 2012).
Burns Rehabilitation: Introduction of dynamic orthoses, early motion strategies, silicone therapy, and
occupational engagement like art and self-care activities (El Khatib A et al, 2021) These trends reflect
a move from rigidity to recovery-focused, evidence-based care. Occupational therapy models (Wong
S. R, 2015) help us move beyond a biomechanical Lens to see the full picture of recovery. The PEO
Model (Person-Environment-Occupation) (Law M,1996) emphasizes the dynamic relationship
between the individual, their roles, and the environment. For instance, a patient recovering from a
distal radius fracture is not just regaining wrist extension; they may be a farmer needing to milk cattle
or a homemaker preparing rotis. In such cases, therapy must bridge personal factors (pain, fatigue),
occupational goals, and environmental realities (rural home setup, lack of equipment). The Model of
Human Occupation (MOHO) (Keilhofner G,2008) focuses on volition, habituation, and performance
patterns. It helps us understand how identity and routine are disrupted post-injury and guides
therapists to restore meaningful roles. The EHOW (Environment- Health- Occupation- Wellness)
(Janssen S, 2020, Pizzi M, 2017) framework, though lesser known, is especially valuable in hand
therapy. It promotes hand use not only for function but for well-being and social engagement
recognizing
The hand as a medium of expression, work, and connection. These models help embed purpose into
clinical reasoning and goal setting, ensuring therapy outcomes are not just functional but life-
restorative. India’s diverse cultural practices and socioeconomic structures must shape our therapy
Goals. For example, post-operative wrist mobilization might include grinding masalas on a stone,
Braiding hair, or kneading dough. These activities are deeply embedded in our daily life but often
ignored in western protocols. Furthermore, with 60–70% (Ministry of Labour and Employment,
2024) of the workforce in the unorganized sector, return-to-work therapy must account for informal
occupations like tailoring, masonry, or vending. Many of these jobs rely heavily on hand
Function and offer little job security. Losing hand function can plunge a family into a financial crisis.
Enabling and purposeful activities being resourceful, and cost-effective using simple tools like
clothespins, rolling pins, or even household items to simulate tasks, making therapy affordable and
meaningful. Hand injuries not only limit function but often cause emotional trauma, role disruption,
and social withdrawal. A farmer unable to hold tools due to contractures,
A painter losing fine motor skills, or a manual labourer fearing job loss- these stories are marked by
distress and identity loss. Research has shown that psychosocial factors, especially anxiety and
depression, are predictors of poor hand therapy outcomes (Haese J. B, 1985 & Ghitan A. F, 2023).
Integrating psychosocial support through motivational interviewing, role counselling, and
Caregiver inclusion is thus essential to meaningful progress. In hand therapy, return to work (RTW)
is a powerful goal that blends progress and Purpose. Evidence shows that early work-focused
interventions improve RTW rates and reduce Economic burden (Adams J 2003, Opsteegh L 2009).
For patients with injuries like tendon

Page 71

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Lacerations or nerve repairs, therapy must mimic job demands, not just restore joint motion. In
India, where few patients receive formal vocational rehabilitation, therapists must take the lead in
job simulation, ergonomic education, and gradual reintegration. For example, a textile worker
Might train with real cloth cutting tasks, while a rickshaw driver may need graded hand
Endurance tasks to resume steering. In rural India, therapists often play multiple roles such as
Clinician, educator, advocate. With limited resources, even awareness sessions in village panchayats
or health camps can make a difference. Teletherapy and low-tech rehabilitation kits are emerging
solutions to serve remote areas. From 3D-printed orthoses to AI-driven rehabilitation platforms that
monitor progress and give feedback, technology is transforming therapy. Virtual reality, motion
tracking, and digital hand exercises increase engagement and allow remote monitoring. Patient
compliance increases when therapy is meaningful, affordable, and contextual. Patients are more likely
to stick with therapy when it is meaningful and fits their lifestyle. But challenges like cost, travel, and
awareness can create barriers. Therapists in India also face issues with low pay or unpaid services.
Advocacy is needed to improve therapist recognition, Include OT in health policies, and ensure timely
referrals after surgeries. Every movement we restore must serve a purpose. As hand therapists, we
don’t just treat injuries, we help people return to their roles, rebuild their confidence, and find hope.
Whether it’s a father lifting his child again, a woman
resuming cooking, or a labourer returning to work. Let us continue to blend clinical excellence with
compassion, creativity, and culture.
References
1. Willard and Spackman’s Occupational Therapy: Eighth Edition. Helen L. Hopkins, Ed, OTR/L,
FAOTA, and Helen D. Smith, MOT, OTR/L, FAOTA, Editors (1993). J. B. Lippincott Company, 227 East
Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA 19106-3780. 976 Pp.
2. Skirven, T. M., Osterman, A. L., Fedorczyk, J., & Amadio, P. C. (2011). Rehabilitation of the Hand and
Upper Extremity, 2-volume set (6th ed.). Mosby
3. Willard & Spackman’s Occupational Therapy (9th Ed.). Maureen E. Neistadt, scd, OTR/L, FAOTA, &
Elizabeth Blesedell Crepeau, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA (Eds.) (1997). Lippincott-Raven Publishers, 227
East Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA 19106. 928 Pp.
4. American Occupational Therapy Association. (2020). Occupational therapy practice Framework:
Domain and process (4th ed.). American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 74(Suppl. 2), 7412410010.
ttps://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2020.74S2001
5. Tang, J. B. (2018). Recent advances in flexor tendon repair and rehabilitation. The Journal of Hand
Surgery, 43(9), 819–821. Https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsa.2018.06.003
6. Bleakley, C. M., Glasgow, P., & Macauley, D. C. (2012). PRICE needs updating, should We call the
POLICE? British Journal of Sports Medicine, 46(4), 220–221. Https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-
2011-090297
7. El Khatib, A., & Jeschke, M. G. (2021). Contemporary Aspects of Burn Care. Medicina, 57(4), 386.
Https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina57040386

Page 72

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

8. Wong, S. R., & Fisher, G. (2015). Comparing and Using Occupation-Focused Models.
Occupational therapy in health care, 29(3), 297–315.
Https://doi.org/10.3109/07380577.2015.1010130
9. Law M, et: The person-environment-occupation model: a transactive approach to Occupational
performance, Canad J Occupational Therapy 63:9, 1996.
10. Kielhofner, G. (2008). Model of Human Occupation: Theory and application (4th ed.). Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.
11. Janssen S, Hauck E, Miller S.: Leisure as therapeutic modality. Https://www.otinsnf.com, 2020.
12. Pizzi MA, Richards LG. Promoting health, well-being, and quality of life in Occupational Therapy:
a commitment to a paradigm shift for the next 100 years. Am J Occupational Therapy, 2017.
13. (Ministry of Labour and Employment, 2024)
Https://socialwelfare.vikaspedia.in/viewcontent/social-welfare/unorganised-sector-1/unor
Ganised-labour-force-in-india-unorganised-sector-1-1?Lgn=en
14. Haese J. B. (1985). Psychological aspects of hand injuries. Their treatment and
Rehabilitation. Journal of hand surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland), 10(3), 283–287.
Https://doi.org/10.1016/s0266-7681(85)80044-9
15. Ghitan, A. F., Gheorman, V., Pî rvu, D., Gheorman, V., Udris toiu, I., & Ciurea, M. E. (2023). A Review
of Psychological Outcomes in Patients with Complex Hand Trauma: A Multidisciplinary Approach.
Current health sciences journal, 49(2), 143–150. Https://doi.org/10.12865/CHSJ.49.02.143
16. Adams, J. H., & Williams, A. C. (2003). What affects return to work for graduates of a pain
management program with chronic upper limb pain?. Journal of Occupational rehabilitation, 13(2),
91–106. Https://doi.org/10.1023/a:1022599731391
17. Opsteegh, L., Reinders-Messelink, H.A., Schollier, D. Et al. Determinants of Return to Work in
Patients with Hand Disorders and Hand Injuries. J Occup Rehabil 19, 245–255 (2009).
Https://doi.org/10.1007/s10926-009-9181-4

4. Title: Progress with Purpose
Author: Jyotsna R. Bankhele
Qualification: Masters of Occupational Therapy (Neurosciences); PhD Scholar
Affiliation: Occupational Therapist at LTMMC & LTMGH, Sion, Mumbai
EC Member, SHTI; Former EC Member, MB-AIOTA
Mobile: +91-9821211079
Email: [email protected]

“Hands are not only tools of action; they are the extensions of our purpose. To heal a hand is to return
meaning to someone’s life.” Is a quote by an Anonymous Hand Therapist.
In the field of Rehabilitation, Human hand powerfully captures the intersection of identity, function
and independence. As a Hand Therapist, I don’t see hand just as an anatomical structure, but it is a

Page 73

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

dynamic instrument that crafts, communicates, cares and sustains our daily lives. Thus, our work
should not end at restoring the motion but should begin at restoring the meaning.
Every structure in the hand, from the opposable thumb to the intricate flexor tendons is crafted for
function. However, when injury, illness or developmental delay affects that function, even simple
tasks like brushing, bathing, holding a cup or buttoning a shirt becomes impossible. As a Hand
Therapist, I have witnessed how restoring the purposeful use of the hand restores the identity and
dignity because the concern of patient is “Mujhe Mere Kaam Par Vapas Jana Hai” rather than focusing
on improvement in angles of hand.
Thus, Hand therapy doesn’t just aim at healing a limb, it focuses on enabling people to participate in
meaningful occupations, which differ for every individual. For a teacher, it may be writing on the
board; for a grandmother, it may be knitting; for a child, it may be playing with blocks.
The theme "Progress with Purpose" is a call to action, not to move blindly toward recovery or
innovation, but to move meaningfully, with goals anchored in what truly matters to each individual.
It is about making every stretch, every splint, and every session count which will prove that “A hand
may lack strength, but when driven by purpose, it moves mountains.”
We believe that, no hand can heal alone, it takes a team. So the focus is always on Multidisciplinary
approach that includes Surgeons, Occupational Therapists, Prosthetists, Physiotherapists,
Psychologists and Social workers. This collaboration ensures holistic recovery addressing not just the
hand, but the whole person because healing is not the job of one profession, its symphony of many,
each playing in harmony.
As Hand Therapists, we not only assess the biomechanical impairments but also the functional
limitations affecting a patient’s occupation, be it typing, cooking, gardening, playing an instrument,
knitting or holding a grandchild. Considering this we should not rely on assumptions, but use
standardized scales not to just label but to guide therapy with intention, to track meaningful change
and bring patients closer to their real-life goals. Just like compass guides a traveller, scales will anchor
our progress to purpose.
“From holding on to letting go, from first grasp to final release, each hand carries the stories.” In the
realm of trauma, hand therapy becomes a sculptor, chiselling the hope from shattered bones and
scarred tendons. It’s not just about movement; it's about reclaiming identity after major trauma that
hits the patients losing their hope to return to work.
In paediatrics, every crayon held for scribbling, button fastened, or swing gripped is a milestone. Here,
hand therapy is a garden, where tiny seeds of motor skills bloom into functional independence.
In mental health, the hand is a silent storyteller. Be it through clay, journaling, or rhythmic activity,
therapeutic use of hands channels emotion, reduces anxiety, and builds control. With this we can say
“When words fail, the hand becomes the voice of the soul”.
For the elderly, hands often speak of time. But with hand therapy, they also speak of strength, holding
on to utensils, mobility aids, or memories. It is the art of preserving dignity, one joint at a time.

Page 74

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

This shows that across all ages and challenges, hand therapy is not just intervention, it is the
intention. It is the progress, yes but always with the purpose.
Our major role is in hand splints that are used for supporting the structure and enabling the function.
From the resting hand splints to dynamic extension splints, orthotic devices play a major role in
maintaining alignment, preventing deformities, and promoting function. But the purpose should
always be guided by the occupational goal. For example, if a tailor with rheumatoid arthritis is fitted
with custom-made MCP ulnar deviation splints, the goal should not be just hand support but enabling
her to thread a needle again. That’s progress with purpose.
But many a times, progress is often mistaken for speed or strength. But in rehabilitation, progress
without relevance is meaningless. Here’s why the purpose should lead every hand therapy plan with
individualized goals, tailoring therapy to occupations, sustainable recovery and holistic healing by
focusing on emotional, cultural and occupational goals restoring mental health alongside physical
recovery.
In Indian culture, the hand is sacred and symbolic. The hand mudras in classical dance, the hand
gestures in yoga and all the other rituals with use of hands emphasizes how the hand connects body,
mind and spirit. As hand therapists practicing in a culturally rich context, we often integrate such
traditions in therapy. Teaching an elderly woman to perform ‘namaste’ again after shoulder surgery
is both therapeutic and spiritual for her. Thus “When therapy respects tradition, healing becomes
holistic.”
Hand Therapy also extends into community-based rehabilitation (CBR). In rural settings, we can
teach simple hand-saving techniques to workers like using modified sickles for farmers with grip
issues, bamboo adaptive aids for elderly women weaving baskets and education about joint
protection and energy conservation in arthritis in aging hand. This will help them to perform their
daily routines in a better way.
Recent years have seen a major development in the technology-enhanced hand therapy. These tools
not only optimize results but also offer engagement, objectivity and personalization. It includes the
use of Smart Gloves & Wearables that provide real-time biofeedback, enables the task-based gamified
exercises for stroke, SCI and TBI patients. 3D Printing is used to fabricate customized splints and
orthoses for better fitting, comfort and adaptability. Bionics & Myoelectric Prostheses for amputees
and myoelectric-controlled hands offer functional control via residual muscle signals.
Artificial Intelligence is the Next Frontier that has begun reshaping the hand therapy in many ways
like automated ROM & movement tracking AI-driven platforms. It uses phone cameras to analyze the
range of motion and hand posture, allowing for remote therapy sessions. AI-based Rehab Apps are
also available to personalize the therapy games, track compliance and adapt tasks to user fatigue and
success rate. But obviously, AI may guide the hand, but the therapist guides the purpose.
We also encounter many challenges in Hand Rehabilitation despite its scope such as lack of early
referral, low awareness of hand therapist’s role, financial constraints limiting access to therapy,

Page 75

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

emotional fatigue in long-term rehabilitation cases. But even in the face of these barriers, we hold on
to the belief that every hand deserves a chance to heal and function with purpose.
Sharing some real-life experiences on healing hands, rebuilding purpose during hand rehabilitation
of patients are that a young male security guard, diagnosed as having a giant cell tumor of ulna, came
to therapy post-surgical removal of tumor for not just to regain range but to lift his child in his arms
again. That simple act, once painful, became his personal victory because hand therapy honored his
purpose in life. Another homemaker, recovering from enchondroma wanted to return to her daily
chores of cooking, cleaning, nurturing tasks often unseen, yet deeply fulfilling. Through individualized
hand therapy, we didn’t just restore function, we restored meaning of her life. Because when therapy
aligns with what matters most to the patient, progress becomes powerful.
To make hand therapy truly effective and accessible, the certain changes are crucial such as stronger
research and practice to promote the outcome-based studies in Indian and rural contexts. We need
to make Tele-hand Therapy accessible by developing low-cost, AI-supported mobile apps for rural or
elderly patients to follow home-based hand exercise plans with feedback and alerts. We can also do
Cross-disciplinary Training Public Awareness Drives and Culturally Sensitive Therapy by
incorporating occupational goals aligned with patients’ cultural backgrounds like rangoli drawing,
diya painting, or pooja thali arrangements which can all be therapeutic.
The journey of hand therapy is layered with hope, resistance, creativity, and purpose. Whether it’s a
farmer gripping his tool, a mother lifting her child, or an artist sketching again, the hand tells stories
of resilience. As a Hand Therapist, I don’t just treat hands, I observe the movements, design the
possibilities and restore the identities.
“The hand may tremble, may be scarred, may be weak, but with the right purpose, it will rise again.”
With this quote, let us all, as therapists, caregivers, and human beings, honor the power of the hand,
not just for what it can do, but for what it represents as progress that is purposeful, healing that is
holistic, and function that restores dignity as “healed hand can write, work, worship, wipe tears and
wave hello. Its not just progress but its progress with purpose.”

Thank you

Page 76

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Membership Information of the Society for Hand Therapy, India

Membership Form Available at SHTI SlideShare Profile:
Link: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/shti-membership-form_tenure-2025-2029_30-
august-2025-pdf/282807565 (Version August 2025)

SHTI Secretariate Email: [email protected]

“In the art of restoring hands, the surgeon and therapists are not separate players,
but one team united in purpose, guided by trust, together with the patient.”
~ Marjolein Wind, Occupational Therapist / Hand Therapist, Netherlands

Occupational Therapists
Contact
•Mrs. Jyotsna Rupesh Bankhele
•EC Member, SHTI
•Occupational Therapist, OTD,
OPD No. 23, 5th Floor, LTMGH,
Sion, Mumbai-400022,
Maharashtra, India
•Address: 401, Sai Sagar Building,
Plot No. 8 & 10, Sector 23, Juinagar,
Navi Mumbai-400706,
Maharashtra
•Mobile: +91-9821211079
•Email:
[email protected]
Physiotherapists
Contact
•Dr. Tejashree Ajit Dabholkar
•Secretary, SHTI
•Professor, SDSOS, Physiotherapy,
NMIMS University, Vile Parle,
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
•Address: Haware Green Park,
B2/603, Phase III, Plot 15, Sector
22, Kamothe, Navi Mumbai-
410209, Maharashtra
•Mobile: +91-9167047445
•Email:
[email protected]
[email protected]

Page 77

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Past & Present Conference (SHTICON) Information

“The tripod for successful hand surgery is a compliant patient treated by a pair of committed hand
surgeon and hand therapist.”
~ Dr. Mukund R. Thatte. Hand Plastic Surgeon, Mumbai, India

Page 78

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Memories of Past Conferences & Pre-Conference Preparation: Picture Gallery

1
st
Annual National Conference of Society for Hand Therapy, India i.e., SHTICON’2010
on 3
rd
, 4
th
& 5
th
December, 2010 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

2
nd
Annual National Conference of Society for Hand Therapy, India i.e., SHTICON’2011
on 25
th
, 26
th
, 27
th
November, 2011 at Manipal, Karnataka,
In collaboration with Indian Society for Surgery of the Hand, Annual National Conference

Page 79

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

3
rd
Annual National Conference of Society for Hand Therapy, India i.e., SHTICON’2014
on 13
th
& 14
th
September, 2014 at Thane, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Page 80

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

4
th
Annual National Conference of Society for Hand Therapy, India i.e., SHTICON’2015
on 12
th
and 13
th
December, 2015, at Pune, Maharashtra, India

Page 81

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

5
th
Annual National Conference of Society for Hand Therapy, India i.e., SHTICON’2016
on 30
th
September and 1
st
October, 2016, at Goa, India

“Hand Therapy: “Where Hands are Handled with Excellence.”
~ Pratha Mehta, Mumbai, India

Page 82

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

6
th
Annual National Conference of Society for Hand Therapy India i.e., SHTICON’2017
In collaboration with 41
st
ISSHCON’2017 on 22
nd
& 23
rd
September, 2017 at Mumbai

Page 83

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

7
th
Annual National Conference of Society for Hand Therapy India i.e., SHTICON’2019
In collaboration with 43
rd
ISSHCON’2019 on 13
th
& 14
th
September, 2019 at Puri, Odisha

Page 84

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

8
th
Annual National Conference of Society for Hand Therapy India i.e., SHTICON’2021
In collaboration with 44
th
ISSHCON’2021 on 6
th
and 7
th
August 2021 on Virtual Platform

“From grasping branches to crafting tools, the human hand's evolution traces our species' remarkable
journey, etched in every line and contour."
~ Dr. Vinoth Kumar T. (OT), Hand Occupational Therapist, Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu, India

“Hands are not mere extensions of our bodies but rather complex instruments that allow us to interact
with the world around us.”
~ Kanishka Sharma, Senior Occupational Therapist and Rehab Supervisor, Bangalore, India

Page 85

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

9
th
Annual Conference of Society for Hand Therapy, India i.e., SHTICON’2022
In collaboration with 45
th
ISSHCON’2022 on 7
th
& 8
th
October 2022, at Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Page 86

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

10
th
Annual Conference of Society for Hand Therapy, India i.e., SHTICON’2023
In collaboration with 46
th
ISSHCON’2023 on 8
th
& 9
th
September, 2023, at Chandigarh, India

Page 87

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

11
th
Annual Conference of Society for Hand Therapy, India i.e., SHTICON’2024
In collaboration with 47
th
ISSHCON’2024 on 4
th
& 5
th
October, 2024, at Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

Make Memories Forever

Page 88

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

India’s Representation at IFSSH - IFSHT 2025 Triennial Congress

Society for Hand Therapy, India was represented at the IFSSH - IFSHT 2025 Triennial Congress at Washington,
DC, USA from 24
th to 28
th March, 2025. The event was a melting pot of hand surgeons and hand therapists from
all over the world. The event was attended by a team of 30 hand surgeons and two therapists from India. The
two therapists were Dr. Shovan Saha, President, SHTI, and Ms. Yogita Shendge, I/C Treasurer, SHTI. This
conference is held once every three years, led by two leading global organizations, with each of them having
60+ countries as part of the International Federation of Societies for Surgery of the Hand (IFSSH) and the
International Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (IFSHT).
The congress was attended by over 1,500 delegates from 86 countries, coming together to share knowledge,
ideas, and advancements in hand surgery and therapy. The event was attended by eminent and pioneering
professionals, each sharing the common goal of improving patient care and outcomes. Both Dr. Saha and Ms.
Yogita had several scientific contributions at the congress, including poster presentation, podium
presentation, conducting instructional programs, and chairing sessions.
Dr. Saha attended the IFSHT delegates meeting and Education Committee Meeting as Co-Chair and presented
the Education Committee Report at the Delegates Meeting. Dr. Saha was re-elected to the post of Co-Chair
Education Committee for the term 2025-2028. In the delegate meeting, SHTI distributed SHTI-branded
lanyards and the 10
th APFSHT Meeting pamphlet as a goodwill souvenir to delegates from various countries.
The engagement fostered networking and collaboration among professionals who share similar interests and
challenges in hand therapy. It allowed sharing with the global audience the perspective of the Indian hand
therapy scenario and the Society for Hand Therapy, India.

Page 89

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

SHTI Social Media Profiles

Blog on Issuu (Initial Society Documents Stored in Personal Blog of Founding President)
Link: https://issuu.com/hemantpn
Secretariate Email: [email protected]

“HAND: A Holistic, Amazing, Non-Negotiable Device”
~ Dr. Shilpshree Prashant Palsule, Assistant Professor (Occupational Therapy), Mumbai, India

https://www.linkedin.com/groups/49926
56/

https://www.facebook.com/SocietyHandThe
rapyIndia

https://twitter.com/society_therapy

https://www.facebook.com/groups/30444
3833072836

https://www.slideshare.net/SHTIndia

Page 90

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

https://t.me/joinchat/qUm3idLDeiRjZmQ1

https://chat.whatsapp.com/DNJjwoqIYeM7
kZVfX8lExJ

https://www.instagram.com/handtherapyi
ndia/

https://chat.whatsapp.com/GXaEjL6zsbjG3
5rs24Keeg

https://society-
handtherapyindia.blogspot.com/

Page 91

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Society for Hand Therapy India
Official Information: Online Resources and Publications

1. 1
st
Annual National Conference of SHT India SHTICON’2010 Report
Writer cum Editor: Hemant P. Nandgaonkar
SlideShare: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/report-first-annual-national-conference-of-sht-india-2010/55701038
Date of Online Upload on SlideShare: December 1, 2015
DOI: Not Generated

2. Society for Hand Therapy India: 1
st
Newsletter
Newsletter 1: November 2009 Volume 1 Issue 1 (Discontinued Thereafter)
Creator cum Editor: Hemant P. Nandgaonkar
SlideShare: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/newsletter-1-55701170/55701170
Date of Online Upload on SlideShare: December 1, 2015
DOI: Not Generated

3. SHTICON’2015 eSouvenir
Designer, Writer, Editor cum Creator: Punita V. Solanki
SlideShare: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/sht-india-4th-annual-conference-souvenir/56033451
Date of Online Upload on SlideShare: December 11, 2015
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.34165.08162 (In Research Gate: Technical Report)

4. 4
th
Annual National Conference of SHT India: SHTICON’2015 Report
Writer cum Editor: Punita V. Solanki
SlideShare: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/sht-india-4th-annual-conference-souvenir/56033451
Date of Online Upload on SlideShare: June 30, 2016
DOI: Not Generated

5. SHTICON’2017 eSouvenir
Designer, Writer, Editor cum Creator: Punita V. Solanki
SlideShare: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/souvenir6th-shti-conference-2017/79928580
Date of Online Upload on SlideShare: September 19, 2017
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.19065.58723 (In Research Gate: Technical Report)

Page 92

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

6. 6
th
Annual National Conference of SHT India: SHTICON’2017 Report
Writer cum Editor: Punita V. Solanki
SlideShare: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/6th-shticon-2017-report/80220565
Date of Online Upload on SlideShare: September 27, 2017
DOI: Not Generated

7. SHTICON’2021 eSouvenir
Designer, Writer, Editor cum Creator: Punita V. Solanki
SlideShare: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/shticon2021-esouvenir07082021final/249941546
Date of Online Upload on SlideShare: August 8, 2021
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.11515.84001 (In Research Gate: Technical Report)

8. About Society for Hand Therapy India Presentation Version 2
(Audio Recorded Version 1 Uploaded on SHTI Instagram Profile by Punita V. Solanki
Available at Link: https://www.instagram.com/handtherapyindia/)
Date of Online Upload on Instagram: July 13, 2023
Creator, Editor cum Author: Punita V. Solanki
SlideShare: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/about-sht-india-presentation_24-03-2025-pdf/278659045
Date of Online Upload on SlideShare: May 2, 2025
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.22840.46082 (In Research Gate: Presentation)

9. SHTICON’2022 eSouvenir
Compiled by Yogita P. Shendge (with All SHTI Information from eSouvenir 2015, 2017 and 2021)
(Creative Designed by Concept Conferences Private Limited)
SlideShare: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/shticon2022final-esouvenirv11pdf/255844288#79
Date of Online Upload on SlideShare: February 14, 2023
DOI: Not Generated

10. Spotlight on: The Society for Hand Therapy India
IFSHT Newsletter: REACH December 2024 Volume 4 Number 3 Pages: 19-21
Written by: Dr. Shovan Saha (Acknowledged SHTI Resources: Punita V. Solanki & Hemant P. Nandgaonkar)
URL: Available at: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/6ef16a3592.html and
https://ifsht.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IFSHT-Dec24_Final.pdf DOI: Not Available

Page 93

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Sponsors

Page 94

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Page 95

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Page 96

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

“The Scope of Hand Therapy is in its Immersive Nature”
~ Dr. Shovan Saha, Adl. Professor (Occupational Therapy), Manipal, Karnataka, India

Page 97

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Page 98

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

“Hands are the Eyes of the Brain, An Extension of the Intellect.”
~ Kanishka Sharma, Senior Occupational Therapist and Rehab Supervisor, Bangalore, India

“The Human Hand is a Masterpiece of Nature’s Design.”
~ Kanishka Sharma, Senior Occupational Therapist and Rehab Supervisor, Bangalore, India

Page 99

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Page 100

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Congress / Conference Report

The Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI) proudly hosted the 10
th
Biennial Congress of the Asia
Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT) and the 12
th
Annual National Conference
of the Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTICON) 2025, in collaboration with the 14
th
Biennial
Congress of the Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Surgery of the Hand (APFSSH), 10
th
Annual
Conference of the Asia Pacific Wrist Association (APWACON) and the 48
th
Annual Conference of the
Indian Society for Surgery of the Hand (ISSHCON). This prestigious event was held from 11
th
to 13
th

September, 2025, at The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake, Mumbai, India.

The Organizing Committee for the APFSHT Congress and SHTICON’2025 was structured as follows:
• Organising Chairman: Dr. Shovan Saha (President, SHTI)
• Organising Secretary: Ms. Yogita P. Shendge (Incharge Treasurer & Co-Opted EC Member, SHTI)
• Chairperson, Scientific Program: Dr. Tejashree A. Dabholkar (Secretary, SHTI)
• Co- Chairperson, Scientific Program: Dr. Shilpshree P. Palsule (Co-Opted EC Member, SHTI)
• Registration In-Charge: Ms. Jyotsna R. Bankhele (EC Member, SHTI)
• Promotion In-Charge: Ms. Jose Mary Sangeetha X. (EC Member, SHTI)
• eSouvenir In-Charge: Ms. Punita V. Solanki (Vice President, SHTI)
• Master of Ceremony (MOC): Ms. Jyotsna R. Bankhele & Ms. Jose Mary Sangeetha X.

Congress/Conference Introduction
Hosting this international event in Mumbai - India's financial capital, was both a privilege and a
celebration for SHTI. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all team members for their collective effort
in making this event a grand success, under the exemplary leadership of Organising Chairman, Dr.
Shovan Saha.
A total of 62 registrations were received, including 19 international delegates and 43 national
delegates. Of the international delegates, 17 attended and actively participated, while Mr. Pravin
Yadav from Nepal and Mr. Kelvin Liu from Hong Kong could not attend due to visa issues and border
restrictions. Among the international delegates, 13 were residential and 4 non-residential
registrations. For conference promotion and registration, various flyers were designed and
circulated on SHTI as well as everyone’s personal social media platforms.
The inaugural function held on 11
th
September 2025 was graced by the Chief Guest Ms. Kris Tong
Duan Lian (President, APFSHT) and Guest of Honour Dr. Pankaj N. Ahire (President, ISSH &
Organising Chair, APFSSH /APWA /ISSHCON 2025). The eSouvenir was released on-screen at the
hands of the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour.
The theme of the congress/conference was “Progress with Purpose.”

Page 101

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Scientific Program Highlights
Dr. Shovan Saha, APFSHT & SHTICON'2025, Organizing Chairman and President, SHTI, presented a
welcome speech to kick off the program. Kris Tong Duan Lian, President APFSHT, as a Chief Guest &
Dr. Pankaj N. Ahire, President, ISSH, and the Guest of Honor, delivered a welcome address about
APFSHT & SHTICON’2025 and offered encouragement. The delegates were briefed by Dr. Tejashree
A. Dabholkar, Secretary SHTI & Chairperson, Scientific Program, regarding the scientific schedule and
proceedings. Ms. Yogita P. Shendge, Organizing Secretary, APFSHT & SHTICON’2025 and Co-Opted EC
Member & Incharge Treasurer, SHTI, presented an opening vote of thanks and gave best wishes for
successful participation during the entire scientific event.
Dr. Tejashree A. Dabholkar, Secretary, SHTI, briefed about the journey of the Society for Hand Therapy,
India, and introduced office bearers.
Shrikant Chinchalkar, an eminent senior hand therapist from Canada and an Advisory Board Member,
SHTI, conducted a Workshop on “Dynamic Splinting” at the beginning of the conference. He informed
attendees about the splint-making process and provided direction for the hands-on session.
Dr. Alpana Joshi conducted a Workshop on “Lymphedema Management in the Upper Limb”. Every
delegate in attendance took an active part in the workshops.
Shrikant Chinchalkar delivered a Keynote Address on the conference theme of "Progress with
Purpose,” which took us on a journey of hand rehabilitation and unfolded the theme of the conference.
Keynote Address by Dr. Chhaya Verma, an eminent hand therapist, enlightened attendees about
Challenges, Innovation & Road Ahead in Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injury Rehabilitation: An Indian
Perspective
The scientific committee received 34 Scientific Abstracts, which included
1. 11 Oral Papers, Including 3 International & 8 National Presenters
2. 12 ePosters, Including 6 International & 6 National Presenters
3. 3 Innovative Technologies
4. 4 Mini-Movies
5. 4 Essays
An impartial, blinded judging system was utilized for both pre- and post-conference abstract
evaluation, and for essays, only pre-conference judging was done. A panel of judges from the
occupational and physical therapy specialties was chosen.

Faculty Talks
There were two faculty talks by Indian surgeons; Dr S. Raja Sabapathy guided through his talk on
“Surgeons and Therapists - Working Together to Get Good Outcomes in Mutilating Upper Limb
Injuries” & Dr. Ashok Ghodke discussed the Outcome of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.
There were additionally seven talks by national faculty speakers, and 11 talks by overseas faculty
(therapists/surgeon), of which one was an online recorded presentation.

Page 102

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Orations and Combined Sessions with APFSSH/APWA/ISSHCON
Tajima Oration: When to change gears in your practice & how to keep going by Dr. S Raja Sabapathy
enlightened surgeons and therapists about challenges and obstacles related to practice. APFSSH
Presidential Lecture: Children with Congenital Hand Differences, their Parents and a Hand Surgeon
by Goo Hyun Baek was attended by all the therapists and was well appreciated. A combined session
of therapists and surgeons on stiff hand management was attended by all.

Panel Discussion & Symposium
Two panel discussions, namely “Hand Therapy Practice: Asia-Pacific Perspective” and “Birth Brachial
Plexus Palsy: Surgical Strategies and Measures of Rehabilitation”, were moderated by Dr. Punita V.
Solanki, Vice President, SHTI, & eSouvenir Incharge, APFSHT & SHTICON’2025 and Dr. Chhaya Verma,
Professor & Head, Physiotherapy, TNMC, Mumbai, respectively.
Symposium on “Burns Hand: Surgical & Rehabilitation Approaches” highlighted about surgical
approaches, therapists’ perspectives of both the physiotherapists and the occupational therapists.
Symposium was moderated by Dr. Sofia H. Azad, Head Occupational Therapy, GMC, Nagpur.

Awards
1. SHTI Best Oral Paper Award
Awarded to Ms. Mansi Mulye for the Oral Paper Titled “Effectiveness of Dynamic Splinting in Post-
Traumatic Hand Stiffness: A Systematic Review”
2. SHTI Best ePoster Paper Award
Awarded to Ms. Vrushali Jadhav for the ePoster Titled “AI X Healthcare: Purpose-Driven Innovation”
3. SHTI Best Mini Movie Award
Awarded to Mr. Vinod Kumar T. for the Mini Movie Titled “3D Printing Custom Adaptive Devices for
Functional Independence”
4. SHTI Best Innovative Technology Award
Awarded to Mr. Hemant Gawali for the Innovative Technology Titled “Innovative Above Elbow
Prosthesis: Powered Elbow and Body Driven Terminal Device”
5. SHTI Best Essay Award
Awarded to Ms. Pratha Mehta for the Essay Titled “Progress with Purpose”

Dr. Tejashree A. Dabholkar, as Chairperson, Scientific Committee for SHTICON2025, along with
Scientific Committee Co-Chairperson and Registration In-Charge, Dr. Jyotsna R. Bankhele, strived
hard in logistics and maintaining a high standard of conduct of the entire scientific event. The
scientific committee undertook the following tasks.
• Reviewing & forming abstract formats & content.
• Making critical decisions of abstract acceptance & rejection along with conveying to delegates,

Page 103

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

• Communication with National and International speakers about topic confirmation and
presentation schedule,
• Formation of a scientific schedule with a common consensus among conference members
• Sending abstracts for prejudging and inviting judges for conference judging (both occupational
therapy & physiotherapy judges),
• Coordination of the entire scientific event during the conference
• Addressing a gathering to brief about scientific details
• Declaration of results.
• Sharing abstract content & certificate list for committee perusal.

The General Body Meeting of SHTI was held on 11
th
September 2025 at 6:30 pm, that was attended
by SHTI current office bearers and EC members, SHTI active members, SHTI past committee
members, and a special invitee Dr. Hemant P. Nandgaonkar, Founding President, SHTI. The meeting
was conducted as per the GBM agenda & invitation circulated amongst the active members of the
SHTI.
The meeting of the Office Bearers & EC Members of the Society for Hand Therapy, India and President,
APFSHT was organized wherein all international delegates from Asia Pacific regions also
participated, which was held on 12
th
September 2025 at 6.30 pm. The meeting discussed about the
APFSHT current status and future directions and plans on global platform with collective and
collaborative efforts.

The valedictory function marked the conclusion of the congress/conference, during which the
awards of the scientific program in varied categories were announced and the winners were awarded
with a trophy at the hands of the President, SHTI Dr. Shovan Saha and Vice President, SHTI, Ms. Punita
V. Solanki, as per the results announced by the Secretary, SHTI & Chairperson, Scientific Committee
Dr. Tejashree A. Dabholkar. Vote of thanks was delivered by the Organizing Secretary, APFSHT &
SHTICON’2025, Ms. Yogita P. Shendge.

Delegates from around the world expressed their appreciation for an enriching academic experience,
excellent hospitality, and cultural engagement. The success of this event was a testament to the
dedication of the entire organizing team.
We are proud to have contributed as an organizing team to delivering the spirit of “Atithi Devo
Bhava” welcoming our guests as “In our guest, we see God” and to have provided a platform for
knowledge exchange, networking, and cultural celebration, creating memories to cherish for lifetime.

Dr. Shovan Saha Yogita P. Shendge Dr. Tejashree A. Dabholkar
Organizing Chairman Organizing Secretary Chairperson, Scientific Committee
APFSHT & SHTICON’2025, Mumbai, India

Page 104

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025
Award Winners

SHTI Best Oral Paper Award
Awarded to Ms. Mansi Mulye for the Oral Paper Titled
“Effectiveness of Dynamic Splinting in Post-Traumatic Hand
Stiffness: A Systematic Review” at the hands of the SHTI
President Dr. Shovan Saha

SHTI Best ePoster Paper Award
Awarded to Ms. Vrushali Jadhav for the ePoster Titled “AI X
Healthcare: Purpose-Driven Innovation” at the hands of the
SHTI President Dr. Shovan Saha

SHTI Best Mini Movie Award
Awarded to Mr. Vinod Kumar T. for the Mini Movie Titled “3D
Printing Custom Adaptive Devices for Functional
Independence” at the hands of the SHTI President Dr. Shovan
Saha

Page 105

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

SHTI Best Innovative Technology Award
Awarded to Mr. Hemant Gawali for the Innovative Technology
Titled “Innovative Above Elbow Prosthesis: Powered Elbow and
Body Driven Terminal Device” at the hands of the SHTI Vice
President Punita V. Solanki

SHTI Best Essay Award
Awarded to Ms. Pratha Mehta for the Essay Titled “Progress
with Purpose” at the hands of the SHTI Vice President Punita V.
Solanki

All SHTI Award Winners with the
SHTI Office Bearers & EC Members
Left to Right
Back Row: Dr. Tejashree Dabholkar,
Yogita Shendge, Dr. Shovan Saha,
Punita V. Solanki, Jyotsna Bankhele,
Jose Mary Sangeetha X
Front Row: Hemant Gawali, Pratha
Mehta, Vrushali Jadhav, Mansi Mulye
& Vinod Kumar T.

Page 106

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Conference Photo Gallery
Conference Delegates, Faculty and APFSHT & SHTI Executive Committee Members

SHTI General Body Meeting Participation (11.09.2025, Thursday)

Page 107

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

APFSHT & SHTI Office Bearers Meeting with International Delegates from Asia Pacific Region
(12.09.2025, Friday)

SHTI Office Bearers and EC Members During Valedictory Function

Page 108

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Group Photo Post Valedictory Function

Founding President Hemant P. Nandgaonkar Felicitated by Current President Dr. Shovan Saha

Page 109

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Workshops

Dynamic Splinting by Resource Faculty Shrikant Chinchalkar (Canada)

Lymphedema Management in Upper Limbs by Resource Faculty Alpana Joshi (USA)

Hands-On
Workshops

Page 110

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

Acknowledgement
Dear Delegates, Faculty Members and Dignitaries
It is my honor to thank each and every person who contributed to the successful conduct of the 10
th

APFSHT Congress along with the 12
th
SHTICON’2025. Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI),
proudly hosted this international Asia-Pacific event in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, along with other
societies of hand surgery and therapy viz., APFSSH, APFSHT, APWA, and ISSH.
My sincere gratitude to Kris Tong, APFSHT President, for trusting us with this opportunity and to Dr.
Pankaj N. Ahire, President ISSH, & the Organizing Chairman, APFSSH, APFSHT, APWA and
ISSHCON’2025 for his continuous guidance and support. A Special thanks to Dr. Shovan Saha,
President SHTI, & the Organizing Chairman APFSHT Congress and SHTICON’2025, for entrusting me
with this responsibility.
Thanks to our dedicated organizing team: Dr. Shovan Saha (Organizing Chair), Dr. Tejashree A.
Dabholkar (Scientific Chair), Dr. Shilpshree P. Palsule (Scientific Co-Chair), Ms. Jyotsna R. Bankhele
(Registration Incharge), Ms. Jose Mary Sangeetha X (Promotion Incharge), and Ms. Punita V. Solanki
(eSouvenir Incharge), whose tireless efforts made this event possible. A special thanks to Shrikant
Chinchalkar Sir for facilitating connections and promoting this event amongst international hand
therapy community.
We are grateful to VAMA Events’ entire team for their continuous support, to our Sponsors: Orfit
Industries, Ark Healthcare, Able Company, Rehab Zone Hand Therapy Clinic, Dr. Vinod Kumar T.,
Aloha Rehab Clinic, SS Splint-O-Tist and all other sponsors of the entire event for their generous
contributions.
Appreciation also goes to all international and national presenting authors, faculty members,
speakers, panelists, session chairpersons, panel moderators and judges, for their valuable
participation, to Hotel Westin’s management team and staff members, as well as Mr. Anand Peter and
his AV team, for their seamless support. Thank you to the Hotel’s chefs for delicious cuisines, filling
our hearts and stomachs. Thank you to all the supporting staff of the Hotel for logistics, for smooth
conduct of the conference.
On behalf of the organizing team, I extend heartfelt thanks to all the delegates: both national and
international for making this event a grand success.
We hope you enjoy the learning, make new connections, and take-home unforgettable memories to
cherish, knowledge to implement in practice and an incredible experience for life.

Thank you all. Jai Hind!
Ms. Yogita P. Shendge
Organizing Secretary, APFSHT & SHTICON’2025

Page 111

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

“I congratulate the Hand Therapy conference
committee for organising this ASIA-PACIFIC
conference with grand success. I hope all the
delegates become members of the Society of Hand
Therapy, India and strengthen the organisation.”
~ Shrikant Chinchalkar. OT, CHT (Canada)
“The Hand Therapy conference has surpassed
all standards of organisation in terms of
scientific sessions, hands-on workshops,
interdisciplinary sessions, food and ambience.
All three days were very well planned and
executed. It was a nice platform to connect with
so many therapists from India and abroad.
A huge round of applause to the dedicated
organizing team for conducting a great
successful conference.”
~ Sofia H. Azad. MOT (India)
“Congratulations to the organizing committee of
SHTI for conducting a well-planned successful
conference.
A round of applause to a team.”
~ Rashmi Yeradkar. MSc OT (India)
“Felt rapturous & excited to be part of the Asia Pacific International Hand Therapy Conference in Mumbai, 11-
13 September 2025. This event brought together thought leaders, clinicians, researchers, and innovators from
across the globe. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the national and international participants, and to the
entire Hand Therapy fraternity across clinical, academic, and research fields, for showing such great interest
in attending this Hand Therapy Conference. It was truly a privilege and a moment close to my heart to
connect with so many of you. For those I have not yet had the chance to interact with, I sincerely look forward
to building that connection, as we all share the same enthusiasm and purpose: not only to advance ourselves
as professionals, but also to strengthen and elevate Hand Therapy practice for delivering the best patient-
centred care globally. A special note of appreciation goes to Dr. Shovan Saha, Organising Chairman, Dr.
Yogita, Organising Secretary, and the entire organising committee for their tireless efforts, dedication, and
enthusiasm in making this conference a resounding success. Together, we are shaping the future of Hand
Therapy, and I am truly grateful to be part of this collective journey.”
~ Kishore Kumar. MPT (Hand), PhD (United Kingdom)

Page 112

Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (APFSHT)
Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)

APFSHT Congress & SHTICON eSouvenir September 2025

“Fantastic organization surrounded by beautiful
people. Thank you so much for such a wonderful
opportunity to connect with so many smart
clinicians and wonderful individuals!”
~ Alpana Joshi. CHT (USA)
“The conference was indeed a fantastic
culmination of Organizing Team's efforts. It was
visible. So, Congratulations to all the SHTI
organizing team members for this wonderful
experience of Learning and togetherness!!
~ Vaishali Katole. OT (India)
“Hello, I am Dr. Vrushali Jadhav, Hand therapist (Musculoskeletal OT) from India. I have been attending SHTICON
since I was a PG student and this time I attended Conference as a working OT professional. I could understand the
shift of perspective in hand therapy as a speciality. From Splinting Workshop to National and International
Faculty talks all of them were truly knowledge filled. It was great platform which gave an opportunity to connect
with hand therapist from all round the world. I am truly grateful for all the learning and guidance from all senior
hand therapist. Looking forward to more such events. Kudos to the organising team members @Yogita P. Shendge.
OT @Dr. Shovan Saha. OT Manipal @Punita V. Solanki @Jyotsna Gaikwad @Tejashree Dabholkar. PT @Jose Mary
Sangeetha X. OT. Puducherry Jose Mary for this one! I have resumed to my workplace from today. The first case of
my day was a Right-hand PIP base fracture. Was happy to implement learnings from the Conference (buddy
strapping and therapeutic intervention) as taught by @Shrikant Chinchalkar. CHT, Canada Sir and @Alpana Joshi.
OT. USA madam. Missed @Shilpshree P. Palsule. OT. Mumbai madam in this Conference. She has always been my
mentor and an inspiration to me. I dedicate my award for best E poster to madam for shaping me to become the
best of Myself. Hoping to see everyone at Kolkata in 2026. Thank you.”
~ Vrushali Jadhav. MOTh (India)
“Good evening, everyone! Huge thanks to everyone who shared their knowledge at this conference! It was an
amazing platform to connect and learn from the best. We, as young hand therapists, are so grateful for the guidance
of senior therapists – your work is truly inspiring! Hoping we can all continue to grow together and raise awareness
about hand therapy. Thank you again for making this event such a learning adventure!
P. S. Officially introducing myself as a hand therapist, taking a step forward as advised by @Yogita Shendge OT
madam!
~ Dr. Ratika Patil (PT), MSK PT, Hand Therapist!” (India)

eSouvenir Designed, Compiled & Edited by
Punita V. Solanki, Vice President, SHTI &
eSouvenir Incharge, APFSHT & SHTICON’2025

Conference Related Information Retrieved from the
Organizing Chairman Dr. Shovan Saha, Organizing
Secretary Yogita P. Shendge, Scientific Committee
Chairpersons Dr. Tejashree A. Dabholkar & Dr.
Shilpshree P. Palsule & Registration & Promotion
Incharges: Jyotsna R. Bankhele and Jose Mary Sangeetha
X, of the 10
th
Biennial APFSHT Congress and 12
th

Annual National Conference of the SHTI viz.
SHTICON’2025

©Society for Hand Therapy, India (SHTI)
September 2025. Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Congress/Conference Venue
The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake, Mumbai, India

APFSHT_SHTICON 2025 eSouvenir_V7_08.10.2025_Final.pdf

About This Presentation

Slide Content

Tags

Categories

Download

Quick Actions

Statistics

Related Slideshows

APFSHT_SHTICON 2025 eSouvenir_V7_08.10.2025_Final.pdf

About This Presentation

Slide Content

Slide 1

Slide 2

Slide 3

Slide 4

Slide 5

Slide 6

Slide 7

Slide 8

Slide 9

Slide 10

Slide 11

Slide 12

Slide 13

Slide 14

Slide 15

Slide 16

Slide 17

Slide 18

Slide 19

Slide 20

Slide 21

Slide 22

Slide 23

Slide 24

Slide 25

Slide 26

Slide 27

Slide 28

Slide 29

Slide 30

Slide 31

Slide 32

Slide 33

Slide 34

Slide 35

Slide 36

Slide 37

Slide 38

Slide 39

Slide 40

Slide 41

Slide 42

Slide 43

Slide 44

Slide 45

Slide 46

Slide 47

Slide 48

Slide 49

Slide 50

Slide 51

Slide 52

Slide 53

Slide 54

Slide 55

Slide 56

Slide 57

Slide 58

Slide 59

Slide 60

Slide 61

Slide 62

Slide 63

Slide 64

Slide 65

Slide 66

Slide 67

Slide 68

Slide 69

Slide 70

Slide 71

Slide 72

Slide 73

Slide 74

Slide 75

Slide 76

Slide 77