Hand Therapy

A Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is a physical or occupational therapist who has a minimum of five years of clinical experience, including 4000 or more hours in direct practice of hand therapy. A CHT has successfully completed the comprehensive Hand Therapy Certification Exam, which is a test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper quadrant rehabilitation.

Carmen Chivilo specializes in the assessment and treatment of conditions including, but not limited to:

  • Cumulative trauma disorders
  • Flexor/extensor tendon injury
  • Repetitive strain injury (i.e. Carpal Tunnel syndrome)
  • Inflammatory and degenerative arthritis
  • Fracture/dislocations
  • Peripheral nerve and compression disorders and injury O Post surgery of the upper limb

A variety of techniques and tools may be used with hand and upper extremity conditions include:

  • Fabrication of custom splints to stabilize and support joints
  • Custom home exercise programs
  • Exercises to increase muscle function for strength and endurance
  • Ergonomic modification
  • Fabrication or providing new equipment and teaching techniques
  • Manual therapy