Did you know that June 3-9 is Hand Therapy Week?
Hand Therapy Week (previously known as Healthy Hands Week) is an integrated national program sponsored by The American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT). Hand Therapy Week brings the benefits of the hand therapy profession to new audiences – demonstrating the advantages of prevention and treatment procedures for patients who have been affected by an accident or trauma, and educating the public.
Here are a few facts about hand therapy:
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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.
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To obtain the CHT credential, a hand therapist must practice as an OT or PT for a minimum of five years, accumulating at least 4,000 hours of hand and upper extremity experience. Hand therapists must also pass a rigorous certification examination to demonstrate their competency in the practice of hand therapy.
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Hand therapists can help bridge the gap from the medical management of a patient’s injury or condition to a successful recovery, allowing the patient to function normally in their daily lives.
For more information about Hand Therapy Week, visit The American Society of Hand Therapists.