Non-surgical management of hand disorders and injuries using physical methods such as exercise, splinting, and wound care.

Hand therapists also treat other upper limb disorders that affect hand function. Certified hand therapists are occupational or physical therapists with a minimum of five years of clinical experience including 4,000 hours or more of indirect practice in hand therapy, who have successfully passed a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper quarter (hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder girdle, cervical area, and multiple joints) rehabilitation. Hand therapy plays a crucial role in recovery from hand or wrist injury or surgery.

Hand therapy brings together both physical and occupational therapy.