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Specialized Hand Therapy Services Close to Home

posted on Monday, June 23, 2025

At Spencer Hospital, we’re proud to offer specialized hand therapy services through our Rehabilitative Services Department. Hand therapy is an essential part of recovery for individuals facing upper extremity injuries or conditions. Karin Hogge, an Occupational Therapist and Certified Hand Therapist on our team, shares her insight on the value of this unique form of care.

What is Hand Therapy?

Hand therapy is a specialized area of rehabilitation focused on the upper extremities, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand. It supports individuals recovering from a wide range of injuries, surgeries, and medical conditions that impact their ability to function in daily life. Whether someone is healing from a fracture, tendon repair, nerve injury, or managing chronic issues like arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome, hand therapy plays a critical role in restoring mobility and improving quality of life.

How We Help

Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual but often includes exercises to improve strength, flexibility, coordination, and dexterity. We also work to reduce pain and swelling, manage scar tissue, and educate patients on how to protect their healing tissues. Our ultimate goal is to help people return to the activities that matter most, whether that’s work, hobbies, or everyday tasks like buttoning a shirt or pouring a cup of coffee.

What is a Certified Hand Therapist?

At Spencer Hospital, we’re fortunate to have a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) on staff. A CHT is a licensed occupational or physical therapist who has advanced training and experience in hand therapy. To earn this credential, therapists must have at least three years of clinical experience, 4,000 hours of direct hand therapy treatment, and must pass a rigorous national exam. Karin Hogge, our CHT, brings this level of expertise and dedication to every patient interaction.

Specialty Care Without the Travel

Access to a Certified Hand Therapist is not always common in rural communities. Many patients are required to travel long distances for this type of specialized care. That’s why we’re especially proud to offer it right here at Spencer Hospital – providing convenient, expert rehabilitation services close to home.

If you or a loved one could benefit from hand therapy, talk to your healthcare provider about a referral to Spencer Hospital’s Rehabilitative Services. You are also welcome to call us directly at 712-264-6189 with questions or to learn more. We’re here to support your recovery and help you regain comfort, function, and independence.