FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is occupational therapy, and how can it help me?

Occupational therapy helps people restore movement and function after injury, pain, or strain. At Hand and Structure in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, we specialize in treating hand, shoulder, neck, and jaw conditions with a focus on long-term relief. Whether you're recovering from an injury or dealing with chronic pain, we help you get back to what you love—without surgery or medication.

Who is your therapy for?

We work with adults of all genders dealing with pain, tension, or limited range of motion in the upper body—especially people with desk jobs, athletes, climbers, and those suffering from TMJ or repetitive stress injuries. Many of our patients come to us after trying physical therapy or massage that didn’t solve the root of the problem.

Do you offer occupational therapy in Greenpoint, Brooklyn?

Yes! Hand and Structure is located in the heart of Greenpoint at 1091 Lorimer Street. We serve the entire Brooklyn and NYC area, and also offer virtual sessions across the U.S.

What is TMJ disorder and how do you treat it?

TMJ disorder refers to dysfunction in the jaw joint, which can cause jaw pain, clenching, teeth grinding, neck tension, and headaches. At Hand and Structure, we use manual fascia release, dry needling, posture training, and personalized exercises to address the root causes of TMJ dysfunction. Sessions can be done in person or online.

Can you help with pain from working at a computer all day?

Yes. Many of our clients experience tech-related issues like forward head posture, neck stiffness, jaw clenching, and carpal tunnel. Our sessions focus on ergonomic adjustments, fascia therapy, and exercises to help your body stay strong and aligned—even during long workdays.

Do you offer hand therapy for climbing injuries?

Absolutely. As a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT), Fathima specializes in climbing rehabilitation, treating tendon issues, pulley injuries, and chronic overuse. We’ll help you rebuild strength and prevent future flare-ups—without losing connection to your sport.

How long does it take to feel results?

Many clients feel relief after the first or second session, especially with dry needling and fascia release. Long-term change depends on your goals and condition, but we typically see major improvements within 3–6 sessions.

What is dry needling and is it safe?

Dry needling is a targeted technique using fine needles to release trigger points and reduce muscle tension. It’s highly effective for neck pain, shoulder stiffness, and jaw tension (especially in TMJ). It’s safe when performed by a licensed professional, and many patients report immediate relief.

I don’t live in Brooklyn—can I still work with you?

Yes! We offer virtual therapy sessions for TMJ, neck pain, and posture correction. You’ll receive a fully personalized treatment plan and one-on-one guidance no matter where you are in the U.S. Our clients join us online from all over—from California to Florida to upstate New York.

What if I’ve already seen a dentist, chiropractor, or physical therapist?

Many of our clients come to us after trying other providers. Our approach is different—we take time to understand the whole picture, not just the symptoms. With structural integration, fascia techniques, and behavioral coaching, we help you create lasting change.

Do you treat shoulder pain or just hands and jaws?

We treat the entire upper quadrant—shoulder, neck, jaw, elbows, and hands. Whether you're dealing with frozen shoulder, rotator cuff issues, or referred pain from posture imbalances, we’ll assess your range of motion and customize a plan for your body.

How much does treatment cost?

Rates vary depending on whether you choose in-person or virtual sessions. We are an out-of-network provider, but we provide superbills for insurance reimbursement—many PPO plans cover occupational therapy partially. We also offer package deals for clients committing to longer treatment plans. With a larger package, you can save up to $20 per session, making it a more affordable way to achieve lasting results.

Do you treat women and LGBTQIA+ individuals?

Yes, our practice is welcoming, trauma-informed, and inclusive. We work with a wide range of clients, especially women dealing with jaw pain or stress-related symptoms. Our care is always personalized and respectful of your identity and lived experience.

Can I book an appointment online?

Yes. We use Jane App to offer flexible online booking. You can schedule, reschedule, or cancel appointments anytime. Simply create an account to get started.

Are virtual sessions available?

Yes, we offer online therapy for TMJ, neck, and upper body pain. Our virtual sessions include guided exercises, ergonomic assessments, and real-time feedback—all from the comfort of your home.

What makes your clinic different from others in NYC?

Hand and Structure offers highly personalized care from a Certified Hand Therapist. We focus on structural integration and long-term pain relief—not just temporary fixes. Every treatment plan is tailored to your needs and lifestyle.