Shilpa Desphande, MS, OTR/L, CHT

Certified Hand Therapist
Shilpa Desphande, MS, OTR/L, CHT

My interest in Anatomy and Biology in high school drew me toward the field of Rehabilitation Services. I grew up in the city of Mumbai in India and completed my Bachelors of Science in Occupational Therapy (OT). The field of OT has been a good fit - it provides immense satisfaction of connecting with people in a meaningful way. I am amazed at the resilience of the human spirit and feel fortunate to be a part of my client’s recovery process wherein I learn as much as they do. As an OT, I have learnt to look at my client’s concerns/issues with a unique problem solving lens that focuses on strengths/abilities to restore/improve their function.

My father encouraged me to pursue further studies in the US which motivated me to apply for and complete my Master’s in Occupational Therapy at University of Illinois at Chicago. Since then I have worked in various settings in Illinois and Maryland - including Inpatient Rehab in Spinal Cord Injury Unit, Acute Care Hospital, Skilled Nursing Facility, Outpatient - Neuro, Orthopedics and Pediatrics. Over the last 10 years I have worked in Outpatient Orthopedics with a keen interest in Hand Therapy due to the complex nature of hand injuries and recently received my Certification in Hand Therapy.

I have experience with IASTM, orthosis fabrication, Kinesiotaping, modalities of Ultrasound and Electrotherapy. I have experience working with clients with hand concerns due to neurological diagnoses such as post Stroke, Parkinson’s disease. I deeply care about evidence-based practice while developing individualized treatment plans. Empowering patients with knowledge to help them manage their goals “Meet our clients where they are.”

I am excited to be part of the team here at Hand & Ortho to continue my learning journey and make connections with patients and providers in Utah. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter. We enjoy hiking and traveling. I love playing and watching tennis.