Hand and Upper Extremity Rehabilitation
A Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is an physical therapist or occupational therapist who has a minimum of five years of clinical experience, including 4,000 hours or more in direct practice in hand therapy. In addition, the Certified Hand Therapist has successfully passed a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper quarter rehabilitation. Because of changes in the profession, every CHT is required to demonstrate continued professional development and competency by recertifying every five years.
Who needs a Hand Therapist?
People value the use of their hands. Any loss of function through injury or accident may have a devastating effect on their lives. The intricate anatomy of the arm and hand frequently requires very delicate surgery, often with microscopic techniques. The technical complexity of these surgeries requires rehabilitative postoperative care from certified therapists who are highly trained, and knowledgeable about these advanced surgical techniques and post-op hand programs.
In addition to post-operative therapy, hand therapy is useful in the management of the following conditions:
- Residual stiffness after a fracture.
- Strains and sprains from overuse.
- Tendon injuries (repairs, tendinitis).
- Pain from arthritis.
- Tennis elbow.
- Nerve injury or trauma requiring desensitization.
- Impaired coordination and dexterity.
- Carpal Tunnel and Cubital Tunnel Syndrome.
- Splint fabrication for prevention or correction of injury.
Randy Rider, PT, CHT