Lauren Smith

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy

Specialisms

Hand and Wrist Injuries; CRPS and Rheumatology

Introduction

I qualified as an Occupational Therapist from Southampton University in 1999 and have always had a keen interest in hand and wrist rehabilitation. I have worked in my current role as a senior hand therapist since 2022; this involves working with an acute and trauma-related caseload. I treat a wide range of  hand and wrist conditions, using holistic assessments and various rehabilitation modalities. I predominantly treat traumatic injuries, post trauma and elective hand and wrist surgery, CRPS and rheumatological conditions.
 
I create individualised thermoplastic splints, design rehabilitation programmes, help manage wounds, pain, scars, oedema and guide patients towards functional goals. I have developed high-level communication skills working alongside surgeons and therapists in trauma clinics and regularly write reports for GPs and other professionals. I have also completed four British Association of Hand Therapist (BAHT) courses. 

Prior to 2022, I went to live in Bengaluru, India for two years and engaged in voluntary work with Links Charitable Trust, helping disadvantaged migrant children and their families access education and healthcare. On my return, I started a band 7 role within an MSK team as the sole Hand Clinical Specialist Practitioner. I completed up to level 4 Advanced Practitioner training. 

I accept instructions from both claimant and defendant solicitors and insurers. I have undergone formal training in the medico-legal process and am fully aware of my responsibilities under Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to expert witnesses.