Upper Extremity and Ergonomic Considerations in Perinatal Care

Presented by Emi Ito

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Description

While women’s health across the lifespan is increasingly acknowledged in clinical practice, pregnancy and postpartum-related upper extremity conditions remain underrecognized and undertreated. Carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy and “mommy thumb” in the postpartum period are highly prevalent, yet traditional recommendations are often limited to bracing or a passive “rest and wait” approach. As a result, many patients struggle with pain and decreased function during caregiving.

This webinar will bridge that practice gap by reviewing the relevant upper extremity anatomy and exploring practical, evidence-informed strategies for managing these conditions. We will discuss ergonomic modifications, treatment considerations, and approaches that support both maternal recovery and functional independence.

Designed for occupational therapists, physical therapists, hand therapists, and other clinicians working in orthopedic, women’s health, and outpatient rehab settings, this session will provide actionable tools to integrate immediately into practice to help your patients return to function.

Instructor

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Emi Ito, OTR/L, CLT, CHT, CEAS

Emi Ito is a certified hand therapist with expertise in hand and upper extremity rehabilitation, lymphedema management, and ergonomics. She earned her master’s degree in occupational therapy from the University of Southern California and began her career in acute care before completing a hand therapy fellowship in…

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Learning Objectives

  • Analyze upper extremity anatomy relevant to pregnancy and postpartum-related conditions
  • Distinguish between common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, and other upper extremity disorders in this population
  • Apply ergonomic modifications to reduce strain and support maternal recovery
  • Implement manual therapy and therapeutic exercise strategies appropriate for pregnancy and postpartum patients
  • Integrate anatomical knowledge and evidence-based interventions into comprehensive treatment planning for women’s health across the perinatal continuum

Agenda

All times in Eastern Time.

7:00pm–7:20pm
Chapter 1: Common Upper Extremity Conditions Across the Perinatal Continuum
7:20pm–7:40pm
Chapter 2: Ergonomic Activity Modifications for Activities of Daily Living
7:40pm–8:10pm
Chapter 3: Additional Interventions and Applications
8:10pm–8:15pm
Break
8:15pm–8:45pm
Question and Answer Session

Medbridge is committed to accessibility for all of our subscribers. If you are in need of a disability-related accommodation, please contact [email protected] . We will process requests for reasonable accommodation and will provide reasonable accommodations where appropriate, in a prompt and efficient manner.

Details

  • January 15, 2026
  • 7:00pm-8:45pm EST
    • PTs/PTAs, Intermediate
    • OTs/OTAs, Intermediate
    • ATs, Advanced
  • Register soon to secure your spot!

* Available January 15

Disclaimer

Emi Ito, instructor for this educational event, receives compensation from Medbridge for this course. No one with the ability to control content has relevant relationship(s) to disclose.

Accreditation

Requirements

To receive CEU credit all disciplines must attend the webinar for the full duration, complete the quiz with a minimum score of 70%, and complete the participant survey.

"Live" CEUs

Even if this webinar is accredited for your discipline and location, it may not count as a “Live” CEU. of governing bodies that count our accredited webinars as “Live” CEUs.

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