Hand therapy program

What is hand therapy and how is it different from traditional therapy?

When your child or teen is diagnosed with a condition that requires hand therapy, they will see a certified hand therapist for treatment. The hand is unique when it comes to care and treatment due to its complex nature and function. Our certified hand therapists work alongside our hand surgeon and other members of your care team in the clinic. The hand therapists will teach your child stretches and exercises that have been customized to fit their needs and goals and will assist with strength and functional development.

• Develop individualized strengthening, flexibility and range of motion programs 
• Provide guidance to return to sports and daily activity during a patient's recovery
• Custom splinting to protect an injury, increase range of motion or increase functional use of the hand or arm
• Serial casting to increase range of motion 
• Use of therapeutic treatments to help relieve pain and stiffness
• Scar management to promote healing and mobility
• Edema control to reduce swelling
• Activities to promote functional use of the upper extremity 

Why choose Children’s Wisconsin for hand therapy?

Because kids’ bodies are still growing and developing, it’s important to see a certified pediatric hand therapist who has the training and skills to work specifically with kids. This will ensure the best possible outcomes for the future functionality of your child’s fingers or hand.

• Hand therapists are licensed occupational therapists who have advanced and specialized training to treat hand and upper extremity conditions.
• Certified hand therapists (CHT) must practice as an occupational or physical therapist for at least three years with at least 4,000 hours of hand and upper extremity experience. They must also pass an extensive certification exam to demonstrate their skills and abilities.
• Hand therapists work as part of a comprehensive care team with our orthopedic hand surgeon, physicians, nurses and athletic trainers to provide the highest quality of care for your child.