A hand therapist is an occupational or physical therapist who, through advanced continuing education, clinical experience and integration of knowledge has become proficient in treatment of upper extremity conditions resulting from trauma, disease, congenital or acquired deformity. A hand therapist may achieve advanced certification as a certified hand therapist (CHT). To obtain the CHT credential, a therapist must practice for a minimum of five years, accumulating at least 4,000 hours of treatment for hand and upper extremity disorders. Certified hand therapists must also pass a rigorous certification exam to demonstrate their competency in the practice.
Hand therapists employs a variety of techniques and tools, including activity and exercise programs, custom orthotic fabrication, management of pain and swelling and wound and scar care. A hand therapist can also be a consultant in the industrial world, training employees in healthy work habits.
The relationship between a patient and their hand therapist is crucial in order to achieve a successful outcome after surgery. So it always comes back to being comfortable with your therapist and trusting them to help you relieve pain, restore function and achieve your rehabilitation goals.
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Image courtesy of the Australian Hand Therapy Association (AHTA)