What is a Hand Therapist?

A Hand Therapist is either a Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist who has pursued additional training in the treatment of upper limb conditions from the shoulder to the finger tips. A recognized hand therapist has achieved a minimum of 3600 treatment hours specific to upper limb conditions. Most hand therapists are members of the Australian Hand Therapy Association, (AHTA) which is Australia's only professional Association representing hand therapists and has just over 300 members nationally.

What can a hand therapist help you with?

Recovery after surgery

Rehabilitation after complex injury or trauma

Recovery after amputation, tendon repair or nerve repair

Recovery of movement and function after a broken bone

Arthritis problems

Tendon problems , for example: Tennis elbow, Dequervains

Scar reduction

Reducing swelling/oedema

Lymphoedema

Joint injury

Sporting injury

Work related injury

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Recovery and assistance after stroke, neurological injury

Pain conditions

When should you come and see a hand therapist?

If you have a sports or other injury to your hand, wrist or arm

For ongoing ache or pain that is not getting better

If you have a chronic condition such as arthritis

If you have any of the following symptoms - pain, pins & needles, decreased strength, reduced function or stiffness

If you have been referred by your treating doctor, specialist, orthopaedic surgeon or hand surgeon

Please note early treatment and advice are the keys to getting the best Possible results

For further information on specific conditions, please see the articles below.