Fit4Life’s Winnipeg physiotherapy clinic provides a unique discipline of Physiotherapy provided by a Certified Hand therapist for assessment and treatment of the upper extremity (hand to shoulder).
To become a Certified Hand Therapist a physiotherapist first has to complete 4000 hours of assessment and treatment of the upper extremity and then has to pass an extremely extensive exam administered by the Hand Therapy Certification Commission (HTCC).
Hand & Upper Limb Physio FAQs
Who should seek assessment/treatment from a Certified Hand Therapist?
Anyone dealing with pain/issues, injury or post-surgery involving the upper extremity (hand to shoulder) would likely benefit from seeing a Certified Hand Therapist.
What conditions would benefit from assessment/treatment from a Certified Hand Therapist?
- Arthritis (shoulder, elbow, wrist or hand). Patient’s suffering from arthritis of the wrist, fingers and/or thumbs often benefit from an orthosis (splint) to help manage symptoms
- Trigger finger
- Any condition of the upper extremity requiring an orthosis (splint). Note: a Certified Hand Therapist can fabricate a custom orthosis (splint) that is completely unique to you
- Peripheral nerve issues including (but not limited to) – thoracic outlet syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, cubical tunnel syndrome
- Fracture and sprains of the upper extremity
- Tendinitis or muscle strains of the upper extremity
- Post-surgical procedures of the upper extremity including (but not limited to) – tendon repair or transfer, fracture, dupuytrens release, cubital or carpal tunnel release, joint replacement
Does my insurance provider cover services provided by a Certified Hand Therapist?
Physiotherapy services provided by a Certified Hand Therapist are covered under your regular third party insurance provider plan for Physiotherapy.
Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Certified Hand Therapist?
No, you do not need a Physician’s referral to see a Certified Hand Therapist. However, some insurance providers do require a physician’s referral to approve the cost of treatment/physiotherapy insurance claim. We suggest you call your insurance provider to find out this information as all insurance plans as well as providers vary.
