Hand Therapy San Francisco — Certified Specialists

When hand, wrist, elbow, or shoulder pain limits your daily activities, you need specialized care from certified hand therapists. With over 25 years of experience treating upper extremity conditions, our team helps you regain function and return to the activities you love.

specialized care for hands and wrists

When Hand Pain Takes Over Your Life

We understand how frustrating it is when hand, wrist, elbow, or shoulder pain makes everyday tasks feel impossible. You shouldn't have to struggle with basic activities.

Typing Hurts

Every keystroke sends shooting pain up your arm, making work feel impossible.

Can't Open Jars

Simple tasks like opening bottles or jars become daily struggles and frustrations.

Gripping

Holding your steering wheel or tools causes pain that limits your daily activities.

"Only Golden Gate Hand Therapy called back promptly. I was very impressed by Melanie's expertise and caring demeanor. She answered all my questions thoroughly and patiently. I was surprised to find out that she actually discussed with my hand orthopedic surgeon about my conditions prior to my appointment, so she could provide the best care during my recovery."

angela chang
How It Works

Your Path to Complete Wrist Recovery

Book Your Free Consultation

Connect with our certified hand therapists to discuss your wrist fracture, current symptoms, and recovery goals. We'll answer your questions and create a personalized rehabilitation plan.

Complete Your Comprehensive Assessment

Our CHT specialists evaluate your wrist range of motion, grip strength, swelling, and functional limitations. We review your X-rays and coordinate with your physician to ensure optimal healing.

Begin Your Customized Treatment Program

Start your specialized therapy with manual mobilization, therapeutic exercises, custom splinting, and functional activities designed to restore full wrist function.

See What Our Patients Say

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"I highly recommend Golden Gate Hands Therapy! I got injured, and since I started doing my occupational therapy sessions here, I’ve been feeling so much relief."
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Frances Reuther
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"I don't think most 10 therapy places would use paraffin wax and ultrasound as far as I know. 
I highly recommend Golden Gate
Hand Therapy!"
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Gabriele Hoff
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"TLDR: I love this place and didn't have a single bad experience. Can't recommend the folks in this office highly enough. Eizelle, Danielle, Crystal, and Kelly are amazing."
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Zach Freedman
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"Danielle I was so thorough, very interested in actually understanding my injuries fully, developed a great treatment for both injuries and is fun to talk to. Staff is incredible at scheduling and the organization is just ultra buttoned down and professional."
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"Superb care from an entirely knowledgable practioner. I had a hard time finding availability in San Francisco and it was more than worth the drive up to Mill Valley. i worked with many PT's after wrist surgery and Danielle was one of the best by far."
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Lori Ayers
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"Golden Gate Hand Therapy is an efficient and warm environment overall, but I am posting this review specifically for Annie because I feel like she saved my hands. The advice she gave me was so incremental in helping me navigate my injury and keep working while I healed and she always gave me top notch care.."
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Love Maia

Meet Our Expert Team

melanie johnke ceo
Melanie Johnke
OTR/L, CHT, Founder

Completed her Master's OT degree at Samuel Merritt University. Founded GGHT in 2005 with a passion for helping hands heal in San Francisco. She loves spending quality time
with her family, traveling and staying active with pure barre and pickle ball.  

danielle conroe
Danielle Conroe
OTR/L, CHT

With over 24 years of hand therapy experience, Danielle is an expert. Completed her BS OT at Loma Linda University. She is primarily in our Mill Valley office. She enjoys spending time with her family, yoga and traveling.

crystal wong
Crystal Wong
OTR/L, CHT

Crystal completed her Master's degree in Occupational Therapy and Midwestern University and is primarily based in our San Francisco office. She recently earned her Certified Hand Therapy (CHT) credential. Outside of work, she enjoys baking, Pilates, and skiing.

Eizelle Barrientos, OTR/L
Eizelle Barrientos
OTR/L

Graduated with a Master's of OT from Dominican University. Eizelle is primarily in our San Francisco office. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her daughter and son discovering new places.

brutus
Brutus Henri
Resident Therapy Dog

Woof woof! Part-time office therapy dog. Puts a smile on your face. Treats and pets are always appreciated!

Visit Our San Francisco Hand Therapy Clinic

We're conveniently located in the Pacific Heights neighborhood, just minutes from the Marina District, Russian Hill, and downtown San Francisco. Both on-street parking and public transit are easily accessible.
Email:
mjohnke@gghandtherapy.com
Phone: 415.359.1444
Office: 2238 Union Street San Francisco, CA 94123

Driving Directions: We're just 5 minutes from the Marina, near the corner of Union and Fillmore. Close to restaurants, boutiques, and the Lombard Street area.

A patient receiving hand therapy at golden gate hand therapy in san francisco california

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT)

A CHT is an occupational therapist or physical therapist with specialized training and certification in treating upper extremity conditions. They must have a minimum of three years of clinical experience and 4,000+ hours of direct hand therapy practice.

How long does a typical hand therapy session last?

Our sessions are typically 45 minutes of one-on-one treatment with a certified specialist. We never hand patients over to aides and always provide personalized attention throughout your visit.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your initial evaluation includes a comprehensive assessment of your condition, discussion of your goals, and development of a personalized treatment plan. We'll explain your condition and answer all your questions.

How is hand therapy different from general physical therapy?

Hand therapists have specialized training in the complex anatomy and function of the upper extremity. We focus specifically on conditions affecting the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand using techniques like custom splint fabrication.

Will I need to do exercises at home?

Yes, we provide personalized home exercise programs as part of your treatment. These exercises are crucial for maintaining progress between sessions and achieving 
optimal recovery.

Still have questions?

Contact our team for answers to any questions about your specific condition or treatment needs.