Certified Hand Therapist

About LBJI

As the region’s subspecialty orthopedic group, Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute has served the orthopedic needs of northwest Indiana since 1968. With state‑of‑the‑art facilities conveniently located in Chesterton, Crown Point, Michigan City, Portage, and Schererville, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional, compassionate care to our patients to keep them moving and enjoying life.

Job Summary

Responsible for evaluating, planning and administering physical therapy treatment plans for patients with upper extremity injuries and conditions, designed to alleviate pain, restore function, prevent disabilities, and promote overall fitness and health of patients.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough initial evaluations to assess patient condition, medical history, and functional limitations.
• Fabricate, modify, and fit custom static and dynamic orthoses/splints.
• Formulate targeted, evidence‑based treatment plans with measurable short‑ and long‑term goals.
• Administer hands‑on manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities (e.g., heat/ice, ultrasound, electrical stimulation).
• Track patient progress, modifying treatment plans as needed to ensure optimal recovery and outcomes.
• Instruct patients and their families on proper at‑home exercises, injury prevention, and coping strategies.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant electronic medical records (EMRs) for evaluations, daily notes, progress reports and discharge summaries in compliance with facility and state regulations.
• Coordinate care with referring physicians, surgeons, and other allied healthcare professionals.
• Lead patients through prescribed exercises, manual therapy, and utilize modalities like heat, ice, or electrical stimulation.
• Teach patients and their families proper at‑home exercises, injury prevention techniques, and what to expect during recovery.
• Other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

• May be required to sit and/or stand for prolonged periods and work longer than eight‑hour shifts, including day/evening shifts.
• Requires hand dexterity and the ability to reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, talk, and hear.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lb.
• Vision requirements: close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to focus.
• Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable people with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Work Environment

Work is performed in a clinical environment with frequent contact with patients, physicians, and other healthcare personnel. The setting can be stressful at times, with constant and interruptive interaction. Interaction with injured or sick patients is routine. Travel between all Lakeshore Bone & Joint facilities is required for this position.

Qualifications

• Current, valid state license in OT or PT.
• Active Certified Hand Therapist designation.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Minimum of one year of clinical experience in upper extremity/hand rehabilitation preferred; strong new graduates will also be considered.

Skills

• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of CPT & ICD‑9 coding procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of therapy principles and practices.
• Working knowledge of computer programs and EMR documentation.

Compensation

Annual base salary starts at $92,000, with additional pay for relevant experience. Therapists with active board certifications in approved specialty areas receive an additional $5,000 annually. Other approved certifications may qualify for an additional $1,000 annually, and an annual bonus of up to $10,000.

Professional Development & Continuing Education

LBJI is committed to supporting ongoing professional growth through in‑house education and training. These opportunities are designed to help employees prepare for Tier 1 board certifications and pursue approved Tier 2 certifications.