Hand Therapy is the art and science of the upper limb, which includes the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand. An occupational therapist in a hand setting is a clinical upper extremity specialist who focuses on restoring an individual’s functional role in society through highly specialized evaluation and treatment. Occupational therapists combined with the client strategize to come up with a plan that addresses their specific medical and occupational needs. Occupational therapists provide therapeutic interventions such as strengthening programs, modalities, home/workplace modifications, custom splint fabrication, and manual therapy techniques. Therapists may use their hands to manipulate and mobilize muscle tissues and joints in order to reduce pain, increase mobility/flexibility, reduce or eliminate soft tissue inflammation, induce relaxation, improve tissue repair/extensibility/stability, facilitate movement, and improve function. A Certified Hand Therapist is an Occupational or Physical Therapist who has had a minimum of 5 years of experience including 4000 hours or more in direct contact with hand therapy. In addition, a CHT has passed a comprehensive test of advanced skills and theory of upper quarter rehabilitation. Such therapy is performed by a provider with a high degree of specialization that requires continuing education and, often, advanced certification. This enables the hand therapist to work with patients to hasten their return to a productive lifestyle.
Posted on: Wed, 12 Mar 2014 14:24:19 +0000
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