WHAT IS A HAND THERAPIST JOB?
Hand therapist jobs involve helping people recover from injuries or conditions that affect their hand, wrist, or arm. Hand therapists are trained professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating these types of conditions, and they work with patients to help them regain their strength and mobility.
WHAT DO HAND THERAPISTS USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION?
Hand therapists use a variety of techniques to help their patients recover from injuries or conditions, including exercises, stretches, and manual therapy. They may also use equipment like splints or braces to help support the affected area and promote healing. In addition to working with patients, hand therapists may also work closely with other healthcare professionals, like doctors and occupational therapists, to coordinate care and ensure that patients are getting the best possible treatment.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR A HAND THERAPIST POSITION
- Knowledge of anatomy and physiology
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to work with patients of all ages and backgrounds
- Attention to detail and ability to follow protocols
- Ability to work well in a team environment
HOW TO BECOME A HAND THERAPIST
To become a hand therapist, you typically need to have a bachelor's degree in a related field, like occupational or physical therapy. From there, you will need to complete additional training and certification in hand therapy. This can include specialized courses, internships, and exams to demonstrate your knowledge and skills.
AVERAGE SALARY FOR HAND THERAPIST JOBS
The average salary for a hand therapist varies depending on factors like location, experience, and education level. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for occupational therapists, including hand therapists, was $86,210 as of May 2020.
ROLES AND TYPES OF HAND THERAPIST JOBS
Hand therapists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They may also specialize in different areas, like pediatric hand therapy or sports rehabilitation. Some common roles for hand therapists include:
- Evaluating and diagnosing hand injuries and conditions
- Developing treatment plans and goals for patients
- Providing hands-on therapy, like massage and stretching
- Teaching patients how to do exercises and stretches at home
- Fitting and adjusting splints or braces
- Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to coordinate care
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR HAND THERAPIST JOBS IN THE USA
Hand therapist jobs are in demand across the United States, but some areas have more opportunities than others. According to data from the BLS, the top five states with the highest employment level for occupational therapists, including hand therapists, as of May 2020 were:
1. California
2. Texas
3. New York
4. Florida
5. Pennsylvania
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS USED BY HAND THERAPISTS?
Hand therapists use a variety of tools and equipment to help their patients recover from injuries or conditions. Some common tools include:
- Splints and braces to support the affected area
- Hand therapy putty to improve grip strength
- Resistance bands for stretching and strengthening
- Traction devices to relieve pressure on the affected area
- Massage balls or rollers to promote circulation and reduce pain
IN CONCLUSION
Hand therapist jobs can be challenging, but they are also incredibly rewarding. If you are interested in this type of work, it can be helpful to gain experience in related fields like occupational or physical therapy, as well as to pursue additional training and certification in hand therapy. With the right skills and education, you can make a real difference in the lives of people who are recovering from hand injuries or conditions.