Hand Therapy San Francisco — Certified Specialists

Recovering from hand, wrist, elbow, or shoulder surgery takes specialized care from certified hand therapists. Our expert team has helped hundreds of patients regain full function after surgery with evidence-based rehabilitation programs tailored to your specific procedure and goals.

specialized care for hands and wrists

Surgery Was Just the First Step—Recovery Is What Matters Most

You've had the surgery, but without proper rehabilitation, you risk stiffness, limited mobility, and prolonged recovery. Post-operative hand therapy is essential to restore strength and function.

Stiffness Won't Go Away

Your hand feels tight and painful. Simple movements that used to be automatic now feel impossible, and you're worried it won't improve.

You Can't Do Basic Tasks

Gripping a coffee cup, typing at work, or holding your phone causes pain and frustration. You're losing confidence in your recovery.

Recovery Is Taking Too Long

Weeks have passed since surgery, but you're not seeing the progress you expected. Without expert guidance, you're stuck in a cycle of slow healing.

"I had a bad bicycle accident resulting a broken wrist that required a cast and extensive hand therapy. After calling several places on the list, only Golden Gate Hand Therapy called back promptly. I was given an appointment right away to see Melanie. During my first appointment and evaluation, I was very impressed by her expertise and caring demeanor. I highly recommend GGHT for anyone in need of superior hand therapy services."

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!

Start Your Post-Operative Recovery Today

Our certified hand therapists are ready to help you recover faster and regain full function after surgery. Contact us today to schedule your free phone consultation.
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

How soon after surgery should I start hand therapy?

The timing depends on your specific surgery and your surgeon's protocol. For some procedures, therapy begins within days of surgery to prevent stiffness. For others, we wait several weeks to allow tissues to heal. We coordinate directly with your surgeon to ensure you start therapy at the optimal time for your procedure.

What should I expect during my first post-operative therapy session?

Your initial evaluation includes a comprehensive assessment of your surgical site, range of motion, strength, swelling, and functional limitations. We'll review your surgical report and discuss your recovery goals. Together, we'll create a personalized treatment plan that may include manual therapy, custom splinting, scar management, and home exercises.

How long does post-operative hand therapy typically take?

Recovery timelines vary based on the type of surgery, severity of your condition, and your individual healing process. Most patients attend therapy 1-3 times per week for 6-12 weeks, though complex surgeries may require longer rehabilitation. Our therapists work closely with your surgeon to ensure you progress safely through each phase of recovery.

Still have questions?

Contact our team for answers to any questions about your specific surgery or rehabilitation needs.