ASHT is a professional organization comprised of licensed occupational and physical therapists, some of whom have earned the advanced designation, Certified Hand Therapist (CHT), and who specialize in the treatment & rehabilitation of the upper extremity.

ASHT Mission Statement
To advance the science of hand therapy through communication, education, advocacy, research and clinical standards.

ASHT Vision Statement
To be the recognized leader in education, clinical standards, advocacy and research in the hand therapy field.

Definition of Hand Therapy
ASHT 's definition of Hand Therapy is based on the Hand Therapy Certification Commission's (HTCC) definition of hand therapy, which was developed through a study of hand therapy practice conducted in 2001. The ASHT Board of Directors adopted this revised version of HTCC's definition of Hand Therapy on August 7, 2007.

"Hand therapy is the art and science of rehabilitation of the upper extremity of the human body.  Hand therapists are occupational therapists or physical therapists who, through extra training and experience, have specialized knowledge of upper extremity function.  Using specialized skills in assessment and treatment, hand therapists work with their clients to prevent injury or impairment, restore functional activity, and enhance participation in daily life."

History of ASHT
Relive ASHT's rich history in the Spirit of ASHT Past, a six-article series published in the ASHT Times newsletter and written by several of our founding members in celebration of our 25th Anniversary in 2002. Learn about the early days of ASHT - establishing the Society, creating the logo, developing the Journal of Hand Therapy, and much more.