Hand therapists rehabilitate people with hand and upper extremity conditions.

Assess range of motion, strength, sensation, and overall hand function; develop individualised treatment plans based on assessment findings and the patient's goals; create rehabilitation programmes that address pain management, improves strength, enhances flexibility, and restores functional independence in daily activities; implement a variety of therapeutic interventions and techniques including therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, splinting, and modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation; design, fabricate, and fit custom splints and orthotic devices to support and protect the hand or upper extremity; implement scar management techniques to minimise scarring and improve tissue healing; educate patients on their condition, the rehabilitation process, and strategies for self-management; instruct patients in home exercises, ergonomics, and techniques to prevent re-injury; modify treatment plans based on changes in the patient's condition or goals; implement pain management strategies, which may include therapeutic modalities, manual techniques, and patient education on coping mechanisms; evaluate the need for and recommend adaptive equipment or assistive devices that can enhance a patient's ability to perform daily activities independently; maintain accurate, detailed documentation; ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and standards.

The workplace is diverse, encompassing various healthcare settings where people with hand and upper extremity conditions seek rehabilitation services. Hand therapists may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, private clinics, and outpatient therapy facilities. The environment is typically clinical, with well-equipped therapy rooms that include specialised tools, exercise equipment, and diagnostic instruments specific to hand and upper extremity rehabilitation.

• Light to medium physical demand.
• May sit when conversing with patients and when writing patient case notes.
• Frequently stands when administering therapy.
• Walks frequently to examine patients, check case notes and to gather equipment.
• Lifting, stretching and reaching may be required for some procedures, when undertaking physical examinations and assisting patients to move.
• Repetitive hand and finger movements may be required when performing manipulations or massage.
• Frequently uses medical equipment and general office equipment.
• Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning with medical, biological, musculoskeletal knowledge, diagnostic, communication, interpersonal, organisational, problem solving and decision-making capabilities.

A relevant tertiary qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 1) with registration and annual practising Certificate. In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required. Registration or licensing is required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.