OVERVIEW

Fundamentals of Hand Therapy Course | Online is organized by Australian Hand Therapy Association Inc. (AHTA) and will be held from Sep 12 - 13, 2026.

Description:
The course is 16 contact hours over two days. In addition, there are four compulsory pre-learning modules.

This course will enable the participant to identify the anatomical structures of the upper limb, describe the specific functions, biomechanics, pathology, and healing process of each structure, and understand diagnostic imaging of the upper limb and the physiology and psychology of pain/injury. You will develop the basis of fundamental concepts of Hand therapy to enable you to commence clinical reasoning and solve clinical scenarios and their assessment. This course focuses on clinical reasoning, and in-depth treatment protocols are not discussed.

Learning outcomes:
After this course, participants will:

Describe upper limb anatomy (bones, ligaments, tendons, nerves, vessels and the lymphatic system) across the lifespan
Describe the biomechanics and typical movement patterns of the shoulder, elbow, wrist and digits
Apply anatomy, biomechanical and diagnostic imaging knowledge to critically analyse upper limb dysfunction and formulate differential diagnoses
Apply knowledge of the pathophysiology of pain and psycho-social consideration to manage upper limb disorders
Apply knowledge of healing time frames to plan an appropriate assessment and intervention.

Course type:
This course is a core course suitable for practitioners:

with one to two years of post-graduate experience in treating upper limb conditions, refer to the pre-requisites below
looking to acquire additional skills required for a position in hand therapy
wishing to up-skill and learn current best-practice
wanting continued professional learning (CPD hours)
undertaking to complete the Accredited Hand Therapist credential.