ABOUT

Hand Therapy Specialists (HTS) was founded in the spring of 1991 by Julie Teal, a native Oregonian. HTS was the first private practice dedicated to the care of the upper extremity in the Portland/Vancouver metropolitan area. “My dream was to open a clinic that specialized in the care of the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand (upper extremity). By treating only the upper extremity, I felt we could best meet the needs of our patients and their physicians.” By specializing in individuals with upper extremity problems it narrowed the focus and enabled Julie and her therapists to cultivate superior knowledge of anatomy and the function of the upper extremity.This specialization has translated to the highest quality of care for this patient population.
HTS was built on the philosophy of therapists working closely with the physician, thus creating a dynamic team approach with the patient, physician and therapist.This enhances communication and learning, and also facilitates the best result for the patient.
The business was started with an office in NW Portland in 1991. As the referrals grew, due to the recognition of and demand for high quality, specialized care, HTS expanded. Three additional office locations were opened; Hillsboro (1995), East Portland (2002) and Vancouver (2004).