A Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is a healthcare professional who specializes in the evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation of hand, elbow, and shoulder injuries or conditions. The CHT is a specialist in their field and must go through extensive training to obtain this certification.
How does a Physical therapist and occupational therapist differ from a Certified Hand Therapist?
A well trained physical therapist (PT) and an occupational therapist (OT) may have similar job duties but they are different from a certified hand therapist. The primary focus of a PT is to work closely with the patient to assess movement patterns and work on restoring functional mobility for individuals who have been affected by injury. PTs typically treat patients with acquired deformity from neurological conditions, orthopedic and/or musculoskeletal conditions such as cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury and sports-related injuries among others.
On the other hand, an Occupational Therapy treatment focuses on assessing and addressing the use of activities of daily living such as dressing, eating, or using a computer. Occupational Therapists are typically skilled in sensory integration, vision therapy and assistive technology.
What is required to become an certified hand therapist?
In order to become a CHT which is an advanced certification, individuals must have a professional Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist license and have completed 5 years (or 5000 hours) of clinical practice in hand therapy with continuing education classes related to this field. In addition to this experience, individuals also need to pass the Certified Hand Therapy certification exam that includes knowledge on hand anatomy & kinesiology; pathophysiology; wound care & infection control; splinting; assessment & treatment techniques for injuries/conditions affecting: upper quarter & shoulder girdle; elbow; forearm/wrist; and hand & digits.
What are treatments used by hand physical therapists?
Hands-on treatments to help alleviate pain, reduce swelling and improve range of motion on their patients. These treatments include massage, joint mobilizations, stretching and strengthening exercises as well as the fabrication of custom splints. CHTs may also utilize modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to treat conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow). Additionally, they may advise patients on how to provide self-care through home exercises and ergonomic modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Patients who are in search of a hand therapist may have several questions about this profession. Commonly asked questions include:
What is the difference between a certified hand therapist and a physical or occupational therapist?
What experience is necessary to become a CHT?
What treatments are used during hand therapy sessions?
The answers to these questions can help individuals make an informed decision when it comes time to seek professional assistance. Ultimately, certified hand therapists have extensive knowledge in the evaluation and treatment of conditions affecting the hand and upper extremity which makes them uniquely qualified to assist individuals who suffer from these types of injuries or conditions. If you are looking for quality care for your hand, elbow, or shoulder injury or condition, Horizon Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation offers experienced and knowledgeable Hand Therapists that can provide you with the specialized treatment you need.
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