Dr. O’Brien is an active clinical researcher and has presented on the topic of dynamic stability of the thumb nationally and internationally, as well as numerous courses and workshops on multiple topics related to evidence-informed intervention for the upper limb. She is a published author in Hand, Journal of Hand Therapy, and the Year Book of Hand and Upper Limb Surgery since 2012. She continues in clinical and biomechanical research centered in the care of the painful thumb and wrist injuries. She is a co-creator and former clinical coordinator of the first AOTA accredited Hand Therapy Fellowship at MHealth-Fairview in Minneapolis, MN, USA. She continues to work full time in clinical care at UW Health Hospitals and Clinics, Madison WI, USA.