What is an Accredited Hand Therapist?

An Accredited Hand Therapist awarded by the AHTA is a person who:

  • is an AHPRA* registered Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist

  • has demonstrated an advanced level of competence in hand therapy

  • has undertaken over 300 hours of  advanced upper-limb education and assessment;  a one-year mentorship; and has a minimum of 3600 hours in hand therapy clinical practice

  • has been assessed as qualified and competent to provide safe, evidence-based diagnosis, advice and treatment

  • is awarded the credential of Accredited Hand Therapist by the Australian Hand Therapy Association Credentialing Council.

Accredited Hand Therapists can be located throughout Australia and can be found in private practice (sometimes co-located with hand surgeons), in public hospitals and community settings. There are over 400 Accredited Hand Therapists in Australia.

*Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

Logo of accredited hand therapist with a graphic of two hands and a checkmark, along with text indicating certification by the Australian Hand Therapy Association.
Logo of Australian Hand Therapy Association featuring a stylized hand in a blue circle and the name of the organization.

Splinting

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Casting

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Exercise prescription

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Wound care

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Scar management including pressure garments

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Pain management

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Shoulder & neck assessment

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Sensory assessment

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Splinting ✳︎ Casting ✳︎ Exercise prescription ✳︎ Wound care ✳︎ Scar management including pressure garments ✳︎ Pain management ✳︎ Shoulder & neck assessment ✳︎ Sensory assessment ✳︎