Hand Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of healthcare and rehabilitation, the role of hand therapists has never been more vital.

As modern medicine advances, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can provide specialized treatment, facilitate recovery, and enhance the functionality of patients’ hands.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from a hand therapist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complex field of hand therapy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable hand therapist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Hand Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Hand Therapists are specialized therapists who diagnose and treat patients with conditions affecting the hands and upper limbs.

They work closely with patients to help them recover and regain their hand and upper limb functionality.

Hand Therapists have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Evaluate patients’ hand and upper limb conditions, determining the level of function and pain
• Develop individualized treatment plans for patients based on their specific needs
• Administer therapeutic exercises to improve muscle strength and joint function
• Provide manual therapy techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization
• Use modalities including heat, cold, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and massage to reduce pain and swelling
• Educate patients on how to manage their condition and maintain improvements at home
• Design and fabricate custom splints or adapt existing equipment for patients
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and occupational therapists, to ensure comprehensive patient care
• Maintain accurate patient records, documenting their progress and modifying treatment plans as necessary
• Monitor patients’ progress, adjusting treatments as necessary to maximize effectiveness

 

Hand Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly-skilled and empathetic Hand Therapist to join our team.

The Hand Therapist will be responsible for assessing, planning, organizing, and participating in rehabilitative programs that improve mobility, relieve pain, increase strength, and improve or correct disabling conditions resulting from disease or injury.

The successful candidate should have a comprehensive understanding of hand anatomy and conditions, experience in patient care, and the ability to develop and follow through with treatment plans.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluating and diagnosing hand and upper limb disorders and injuries
• Developing and implementing treatment plans in consultation with physicians or by prescription
• Helping patients restore their function, improve mobility, and relieve pain
• Providing guidance and education to patients about how to prevent and manage their conditions
• Designing and creating special devices to assist in the treatment and recovery of patients
• Documenting and reporting patient’s progress
• Communicating effectively with patients, family members, and team members about treatment

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Hand Therapist
• Graduate from an accredited Hand Therapy or Occupational Therapy program
• Current license as a Hand Therapist or Occupational Therapist
• Strong understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the hand and upper limb
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain complex medical conditions and treatments
• Ability to work with patients of all ages
• Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Continuing education assistance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Hand Therapist
• Work Environment: Clinical setting. Some travel may be required for home visits or to alternate clinic locations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Clinic Director or Department Head.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Hand Therapist Do?

Hand Therapists are specialized occupational or physical therapists who primarily focus on conditions affecting hands and upper extremities, including the arm, elbow, and shoulder.

They assess and treat a wide array of conditions such as fractures, dislocations, sprains, arthritis, and nerve disorders.

They also assist patients recovering from surgeries like tendon repairs, amputations, and burns.

Their main goal is to help patients regain their strength, flexibility, and functionality.

This might involve using therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, splinting, and specialized equipment.

Hand Therapists also educate patients on how to prevent further injuries and manage their condition at home.

They often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and surgeons, to ensure an integrated approach to treatment.

In some cases, Hand Therapists may also specialize in ergonomics and provide guidance on how to use tools, equipment, and perform daily activities in a way that promotes hand and upper extremity health.

 

Hand Therapist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient hand therapist should possess qualifications and skills that coincide with the job role, such as:

• Comprehensive knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the hand, wrist, and arm to provide effective therapy interventions.
• Excellent assessment and diagnostic skills to precisely identify hand and arm conditions and develop appropriate treatment plans.
• Strong manual dexterity and physical stamina to perform therapeutic exercises and manipulations with patients.
• Interpersonal skills to build rapport with patients, understanding their concerns, and motivating them throughout their rehabilitation process.
• Communication skills to explain complex medical conditions and treatment plans to patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
• Patience and empathy for dealing with patients who may be in pain or experiencing emotional distress.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt therapy plans as needed and find effective solutions to patient challenges.
• Knowledge of assistive devices and orthotics, including their application and instruction for use.
• Continued education and training to stay updated with the latest techniques, research, and equipment in hand therapy.

 

Hand Therapist Experience Requirements

Hand Therapists typically need to have a background in occupational or physical therapy.

It generally involves a minimum of a master’s degree in either of these fields, but a Doctorate is increasingly becoming the norm.

Entry-level candidates may have between 1 and 2 years of clinical experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in hospitals, clinics or rehabilitation centers.

These professionals usually have experience in evaluating and treating a variety of upper extremity conditions, with a focus on hand therapy.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) designation, which requires at least 4,000 hours of direct practice in hand therapy.

They may have also developed their skills and knowledge in manual therapy techniques, custom splinting, and administering and interpreting standardized assessments.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership or administrative experience in their background, and may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position in a hand therapy department or clinic.

They are also likely to have expertise in complex conditions and post-surgical rehabilitation of the hand and upper extremity.

 

Hand Therapist Education and Training Requirements

Hand Therapists typically hold a bachelor’s degree in occupational or physical therapy, followed by a master’s or doctoral degree in the same fields.

All states require hand therapists to be licensed, which involves passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) or the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).

Following their foundational education and licensing, aspiring hand therapists will need to complete several years of work experience in their field.

This is typically followed by at least 4,000 hours of direct practice in hand therapy before they can apply for a certification exam.

The Hand Therapy Certification Commission (HTCC) offers the Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) credential.

This requires a comprehensive exam and a demonstration of continued professional development in the field of hand therapy.

Many therapists also choose to pursue further specialization in areas such as pediatric hand therapy, geriatric hand therapy, or sports hand therapy, which may require additional training or certification.

Continuing education is an integral part of the profession to stay updated with the latest treatment techniques and advances in the field.

This can be achieved through seminars, workshops, and advanced courses.

Having a CHT certification and/or specific specialization indicates a candidate’s dedication to their profession and the highest level of competence in the field.

 

Hand Therapist Salary Expectations

A Hand Therapist can expect to earn an average salary of $85,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary significantly based on the level of experience, the therapist’s educational background, the location of employment, and the type of healthcare facility.

 

Hand Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a hand therapist need?

Hand therapists should possess a thorough understanding of the anatomy and function of the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder.

They should have excellent communication skills to understand their patients’ issues and explain the treatment process.

A good hand therapist should also have strong problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, and patience as they deal with varying patient abilities and recovery rates.

 

Do hand therapists need a degree?

Yes, hand therapists need to have a degree in occupational or physical therapy from an accredited institution.

After gaining some years of professional experience, they can sit for a specialist certification exam to become a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT).

Keep in mind that CHTs have to recertify every five years, which requires continuous learning and staying up-to-date with current treatment methods.

 

What should you look for in a hand therapist’s resume?

Look for a degree in occupational or physical therapy from an accredited institution, as well as a valid professional license.

If they have a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) designation, that’s even better.

Experience in a relevant setting, such as a rehabilitation center or hospital, is also beneficial.

They should have a record of continuous learning and professional development, too.

 

What qualities make a good hand therapist?

A good hand therapist should demonstrate empathy and patience, as they will be working with patients who may be in pain or frustrated with their recovery progress.

They should have excellent observation skills to assess a patient’s condition and adapt treatment plans as needed.

A good hand therapist also communicates effectively, explaining complex medical terms in a way that patients can understand.

 

Is it difficult to hire hand therapists?

Finding qualified hand therapists can be challenging due to the high level of specialization required in this field.

The demand for hand therapists often exceeds the supply of qualified professionals, especially those who are Certified Hand Therapists.

Therefore, employers might need to offer competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional development to attract and retain top talent.

 

Conclusion

So, there we have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricate details of what it truly means to be a hand therapist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about treating hand injuries.

It’s about restoring mobility, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive hand therapist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to leap forward.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting precise listings or refining your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every patient restored is a part of the bigger mission.

Let’s restore that mobility. Together.

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