Hand Therapy

Hand therapy is the art and science of rehabilitation of the upper quarter of the human body, which includes the shoulder quadrant, arm, and hand.

Hand therapists merge the theory and practice of occupational and physical therapy and utilize specialized skills in the assessment and the treatment of upper quarter problems resulting from trauma, disease, congenital or acquired deformity.

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Who are Hand Therapists?

A Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is an occupational or physical therapist that, through advanced education, clinical experience and independent study, has met the standards established by the Hand Therapy Certification Commission, Inc., and has passed an extensive board certification examination.

Who should see a Hand Therapist?

• Individuals who have pain, tingling, or numbness in their shoulder quadrant, arm, or hand.
• Individuals who have undergone surgery for an upper extremity disorder.
• Individuals who have arthritis of the upper extremity that limits their functional abilities in everyday tasks.
• Individuals who have limitations in movement or function of the upper extremity.

Our Program Offers:

• A thorough evaluation by a board certified hand therapist.
• Manual hands-on therapy and other exercises or activities as needed.
• Instructions for an in-home exercise program tailored to an individual’s needs.
• Modalities such as ultrasound, heat or cold application, or electrical stimulation.
• Splinting of the hand or upper extremity as needed.
• Consultation for ergonomics or adaptation as needed.

How can our expertly-trained and caring staff help?

Meet David Williams, OTR/L: With more than 25 years of experience in therapy, David specializes in hand and upper extremity therapy. He is a certified hand therapist. Other specialities include myofascial pain, stroke and brain injury. David practices in our East Brainerd Outpatient Clinic.

Meet Cheryl Giest, OTR/L: Cheryl specializes in shoulder, elbows, wrists and hands. She’s a certified hand therapist, a Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist, a Certified Work Capacity Evaluator, and a Certified EPIC Evaluator. She also specializes in industrial rehabilitation and has taught Range of Motion, Manual Muscle Testing and Splinting Labs for the University of Tennessee Chattanooga’s occupational therapy program. Cheryl has also designed and instructed courses for contracture management and splinting. Cheryl has 15 years of therapy experience and practices in our downtown Outpatient Therapy Services.

Admission Guidelines:

A physician’s referral for occupational therapy is required before therapy can begin. After receiving the referral, a team member will contact the patient to schedule an evaluation. Referrals may be faxed to 423.634.4578.

For additional information about the program, please call 423.634.1400 or e-mail handtherapy@siskinrehab.org.

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