In this episode of The Hand to Shoulder Solution, Carl Petitto, OT, CHT, reveals what it takes to become a Certified Hand Therapist and why these specialists play a critical role in upper-extremity recovery.
🧩 What Does “Hand Therapist” Mean?
According to Carl, a hand therapist is:
- An Occupational Therapist or Physical Therapist
- With at least 3 years of experience and 4,000 hours treating orthopedic conditions from the fingertips to the shoulder
- Someone who has passed the national CHT board exam—backed by a credential governed by HTCC and supported by ASHT
Once certified, these therapists carry the CHT designation.
👨⚕️ What Does a Hand Therapist Do?
Hand therapists evaluate and treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Strained or overstretched tendons
- Broken bones and ligament injuries
- Post-surgical scar management
- Custom orthosis fabrication for stability and healing
“If a person needs surgery, we ensure fractures don’t shift and scars don’t tether. We stabilize them properly for optimal healing.”
🤝 How Carl Collaborates with Surgeons
Carl shares how he works in tandem with surgeons and physician’s assistants in an orthopedic environment. He compares it to the Indiana Hand Center’s gold-standard protocols—real-time collaboration enables flexible, safe, and tailored treatment plans.
🎓 The Blend of Science and Art
One of Carl’s core beliefs: therapy is both science and art.
- Science: evidence-based protocols, CME/CEU education, and proven techniques
- Art: customized treatment using tools like ultrasound, joint mobilization, laser, and tailored home programs
This blend ensures that each patient receives a treatment plan designed for optimal recovery.
👁️ Why It Matters to You
Carl emphasizes two things:
- Timing is critical. Address injuries early before they worsen.
- Understanding what and why: When patients grasp the cause and plan, they engage fully—leading to quicker and more successful recovery.
📺 Watch Carl Explain It All
Want the full deep dive on what a hand therapist does and why it matters?
👉 Watch the full episode on YouTube now:
What is a Hand Therapist? – Carl Petitto
📌 Interested in Personalized Care?
If you’re dealing with hand, wrist, or shoulder pain, Carl offers expert evaluation and guidance tailored to your needs:
Harness the expertise of a CHT and take a confident step toward lasting relief!