Are you looking for a way to make a difference in the lives of those suffering from hand and upper limb pain or injury? Becoming a certified hand therapist may be the right career path for you.
Hand therapists are physical or occupational therapists who specialize in treating hand and upper limb injuries or disorders. They use a variety of treatment techniques, including massage, exercises, and other modalities to help patients regain strength and function in their hands, arms, and shoulders.
To become a certified hand therapist, you must complete a series of steps. Here is a brief overview of what it takes to become a certified hand therapist:
1. Education: You must complete a physical therapy or occupational therapy degree program. You may also need to complete additional coursework in hand therapy to strengthen your knowledge and prepare for certification.
2. Licensure: Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to obtain a license as a physical therapist or occupational therapist. Requirements for licensure vary by state.
3. Experience: You must gain at least two years of experience in hand therapy before you can be eligible for certification. This experience may come from working in a clinic, hospital, or private practice.
4. Certification: After you have met the educational and experiential requirements, you must pass a certification examination. The examination focuses on topics such as anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the hand, treatments and interventions, and professional practice.
Once you have become certified, you can start practicing as a hand therapist. Working as a hand therapist can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. You will be helping patients with a wide range of hand and upper limb problems, from carpal tunnel syndrome to fractures to arthritis.
If you are looking for a way to make a difference in the lives of those suffering from hand and upper limb pain or injury, becoming a certified hand therapist may be the right career path for you.
