Physical Therapist only one of 144 in Maryland with this special certification
OCEAN PINES, Md. – William “Billy” Hamilton, Jr., clinical director of Tidewater Physical Therapy’s Ocean Pines clinic recently became a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) and is only one of 144 in Maryland with this special certification.
A CHT is an occupational therapist or physical therapist who has a minimum of five years of clinical experience, including 4,000 hours or more in direct practice in hand therapy. In addition, the CHT has successfully passed a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper quarter rehabilitation. Every CHT is required to demonstrate continued professional development and competency by recertifying every five years.
The Hand Therapy Certification Commission, the official governing body of CHTs and is the sponsor of the voluntary credentialing program, defines hand therapy as, “The art and science of rehabilitation of the upper limb, which includes the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder girdle. It is a merging of occupational and physical therapy theory and practice that combines comprehensive knowledge of the structure of the upper limb with function and activity. Using specialized skills in assessment, planning and treatment, hand therapists provide therapeutic interventions to prevent dysfunction, restore function and/or reverse the progression of pathology of the upper limb in order to enhance an individual’s ability to execute tasks and to participate fully in life situations.”
Studying for the CHT test is an intensive process that can takes month of preparation. On average, only 55% of individuals who sit for the exam pass. Hamilton passed the exam on his first try. He says, “Like hand surgery, hand therapy is a highly-specialized skilled. I look forward to working with more individuals in our community that are in need of this specialty.”
Hamilton received his Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in biology, psychology, and history from Salisbury University and his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from University of Maryland Eastern Shore. In addition to the skilled treatment of hands, he offers specialized treatments for total joint replacements (shoulder, hip and knee), balance impairments and vestibular disorders. Hamilton also commonly treats conditions involving the neck and back using specific mobilization and muscle energy techniques (known as “Greenman”).
About Tidewater Physical Therapy
Tidewater Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Associates, PA was founded in 1984 under the guidance of Dr. W. James Downs, Jr., PT, DSc, ECS. Downs founded the firm in response to local physicians seeking progressive physical therapy services for patients on the Delmarva Peninsula. Since its foundation, Tidewater Physical Therapy has expanded to 16 locally managed offices. Therapists have continued to increase their certifications and knowledge in many specialty areas to provide for their ever-growing patient population. Tidewater Physical Therapy is now the most widely recognized, highly accredited physical therapy firm on Delmarva, setting the standard for exceptional care in a comfortable, friendly and community-oriented setting. In addition, Tidewater Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Associates is a certified Medicare Rehabilitation Agency, meaning our organization willingly accepts a stringent set of guidelines in which to operate, including annual inspections. For more information about Tidewater Physical Therapy, visit www.tidewaterpt.com or call 410.822.3891.