Our hands do almost everything — and when injury, surgery, or a condition limits them, it affects every part of daily life. Hand therapy is a specialized field that restores function to the hand, wrist, and arm.
What Is Hand Therapy?
Hand therapy is a specialty within occupational and physical therapy focused on the upper extremity — fingers, hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. The most qualified providers are Certified Hand Therapists (CHT), an advanced credential requiring years of experience and a rigorous exam. They blend rehabilitation science with practical, daily-function goals.
Who Needs Hand Therapy?
Hand therapy helps people recovering from or living with:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome and other nerve compressions.
- Tendonitis, trigger finger, and tennis/golfer's elbow.
- Fractures, sprains, and post-surgical recovery.
- Arthritis affecting the hands.
- Tendon or nerve injuries, and complex regional pain.
What to Expect
A hand therapist evaluates your range of motion, strength, swelling, sensation, and how the injury affects your daily activities. They create a plan that often includes custom splinting or orthoses, hands-on techniques like joint mobilization, and a progressive home exercise program. Recovery timelines depend on the diagnosis — from a few weeks for mild tendonitis to several months after surgery.
Types of Treatment
Hand therapy includes:
- Custom orthoses/splints to protect and position healing tissue.
- Manual therapy for stiffness and scar tissue.
- Therapeutic exercise for motion, strength, and dexterity.
- Edema (swelling) and pain management.
- Activity modification and ergonomic training to prevent re-injury.
How to Find a Hand Therapist
Seek a therapist with the CHT credential or substantial upper-extremity experience. Ask about their experience with your specific diagnosis, whether they fabricate custom splints in-house, and insurance coverage. Hand therapy is most often delivered by occupational therapists.
Find Hand Therapy by City
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a certified hand therapist (CHT)?
A CHT is an occupational or physical therapist who has earned an advanced credential in upper-extremity rehabilitation, requiring years of clinical experience and passing a rigorous exam. It signals deep expertise in hand, wrist, and arm conditions.
What conditions does hand therapy treat?
Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, trigger finger, fractures and sprains, arthritis, post-surgical recovery, and tendon or nerve injuries of the hand, wrist, and arm.
Is hand therapy OT or PT?
Both occupational and physical therapists can specialize in hand therapy, but it's most commonly provided by occupational therapists. The CHT credential is open to both professions.
How long does hand therapy take to work?
It depends on the condition — mild tendonitis may improve in a few weeks, while recovery after surgery or a significant injury can take several months of consistent therapy and home exercise.
Do I need a referral for hand therapy?
Many states allow direct access to therapy, but some insurers require a physician referral for coverage, especially after surgery. Check your plan and state rules.
Will I get a custom splint?
Often, yes. Custom orthoses are a hallmark of hand therapy — they protect healing tissue, reduce pain, and support function. Many hand therapists fabricate them in-house.
