Valerie Aziegbe, OTR/L, CHT

I have always been drawn to medicine, and I first discovered occupational therapy while participating in a cognitive research study as an undergraduate student. I was immediately interested in the way the field combines medical knowledge, human psychology, and hands-on, functional interventions. During occupational therapy school, I developed a particular interest in hand therapy because of its strong biomechanical foundation and the way it connects anatomy, movement, and recovery. I was also drawn to the creative and technical aspects of fabricating splints and tailoring treatment to each patient’s needs.

What motivates me most is seeing patients improve, even when progress happens gradually. I find it especially rewarding to recognize meaningful gains early on and help patients appreciate the progress they may not yet see themselves. I build trust by listening closely, paying attention to both spoken and unspoken concerns, and anticipating what my patients may need throughout the rehabilitation process. I also use warmth and humor, when appropriate, to help make therapy feel more comfortable, encouraging, and even a highlight of the day.

I treat a broad range of hand and upper extremity conditions, including orthopedic injuries, repetitive stress injuries, tendon and nerve injuries, and complex traumatic injuries. I also work with patients recovering from sports-related conditions and have a particular interest in helping active individuals return to the activities they enjoy. As someone who competes in combat sports, I especially enjoy working with martial artists, as well as yoga practitioners, weightlifters, and rock climbers.

My goal is to create rehabilitation plans that reflect each patient’s functional goals, lifestyle, and desired level of performance. I bring a combination of clinical expertise and movement-based knowledge to my work, particularly when treating patients with higher-level rehabilitation goals. I am certified in office ergonomics, kinesiotaping, and the Graston Technique for instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. These skills allow me to offer a well-rounded, individualized treatment approach that supports both recovery and long-term function.

My background in anatomy and fitness also helps me guide patients who want to safely return to demanding work, sports, or training activities. I believe effective care is never one-size-fits-all, especially in the treatment of hand and upper extremity conditions. The best outcomes come from combining evidence-based techniques with innovative, individualized treatment strategies tailored to each person’s specific needs and goals.

My approach is collaborative, practical, and focused on restoring function in ways that are meaningful to each patient’s daily life. Whether someone is recovering from an injury, managing pain, or working toward a return to sport or work, my goal is to provide highly personalized, goal-oriented care that helps them get back to what matters most.