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. Hand therapy
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.

Certified hand therapists can help bridge the gap from medical management of a patient’s injury
or condition to a successful recovery, allowing the patient to function normally in their daily lives. In
addition to patient care, hand therapists often assist providers by performing clinical testing to
identify dysfunction to assist or confirm diagnosis as well as fabricate custom orthoses.

The Rehabilitation Center for Children and Adults has a Hand Therapy Program provided by a
Certified Hand Therapist.