Occupational Therapist Paul Legardeur, CHT recently earned certification
in hand therapy. He has more than 7 years of experience treating hand
and upper extremity injuries. He is an expert in conservative and post-operative
treatment of shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand injuries. Paul performs custom
splinting and utilizes a combination of manual therapy and passive range
of motion exercises to maximize recovery and increase patient comfort
during sessions.
A Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is an Occupational Therapist or Physical
Therapist who has a minimum of five years of clinical experience, including
4,000 hours or more in hand therapy. In addition, he/she is required to
pass a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in rehabilitation.
Because of changes in the profession, every CHT must demonstrate continued
professional development and competency by recertifying every five years.
A hand therapist can evaluate and treat any problem relative to the upper
extremities that affects hand function. Hand therapists work with their
clients to prevent injury and restore function, often using physical methods
such as exercise, splinting and wound care.