Hand Rehabilitation
Hand therapy is the art and science of rehabilitation of the upper quarter of the human body. Hand therapy is a merging of occupational therapy and physical therapy theory and practice that combines comprehensive knowledge of the upper quarter, body function and activity. Using specialized skills in assessment and treatment, hand therapists promote the goals of prevention of dysfunction, restoration of function and/or reversal of the progression of pathology in order to enhance participation in life situations for individuals with upper quarter disease or injury.
A Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is a physical 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 re-certifying every five years.