Certified Hand Therapy

Our Certified Hand Therapists (CHTs) specialize in treatment of the hand, wrist, and elbow. A Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is a nationally registered occupational therapist or physical therapist, who has a minimum of three years of clinical experience and has successfully passed an examination of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper extremity rehabilitation and meets mandated criteria to maintain this specialized credential. A qualified hand therapist provides the highest standard of care through advanced continuing education, clinical experience and integration of anatomy, physiology and kinesiology, has become proficient in treatment of pathological upper-quadrant conditions resulting from trauma, disease, or congenital or acquired deformity. A hand therapist can provide care for patients with a diversity of upper extremity disorders and injuries, from simple fingertip injuries to replanted extremities. Diagnoses include but are not limited to patients with crush injuries, tendon and/or ligament lacerations/repairs, tendinopathies, peripheral nerve disorders,  fractures/dislocations, infections, sports-related syndromes, repetitive motion disorders and more.
 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What is hand therapy?
Hand therapy is the art and science of evaluating and treating injuries and conditions of the upper extremity (shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist and hand). Hand therapy uses a number of therapeutic interventions to help return a person to their highest level of function. It evolved from the need for a specialist with the knowledge and experience required to manage the challenging recovery of complex hand and upper extremity injuries.

What is a hand therapist?
A hand therapist is an occupational or physical therapist who, through advanced continuing education, clinical experience and integration of knowledge in anatomy, physiology and kinesiology, has become proficient in treatment of pathological upper extremity conditions resulting from trauma, disease, congenital or acquired deformity.

What does a hand therapist provide?
Hand therapists bridge the gap from medical management of upper extremity conditions to successful recovery, allowing individuals to function normally in their daily lives. Hand therapists provide non-operative interventions, preventative care and post-surgical rehabilitation for a wide variety of upper extremity disorders, from simple fingertip injuries to complex replanted extremities. Patients with chronic conditions, such as arthritis, or neurologic conditions, such as a stroke, can benefit from hand therapy through education on joint protection and energy conservation, and with recommendations for adaptive equipment or devices to improve function. A hand therapist 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 and recommending modifications of workstations and alternative work methods to help ensure healthy work styles of all employees.

How can I find a hand therapist?
Please call one of our locations in Eagle, Edwards, Vail or Frisco and ask to schedule an appointment with a hand therapist.