James H. Northcutt, OTR, MOT, CHT

I am an occupational therapist with an advanced certification in hand therapy and also serve as the brachial plexus clinic coordinator. I have spent my career treating pathology of the upper extremity with the majority of time being spent in pediatrics. I am continually impressed with the resiliency of our patients and I truly love my job as a pediatric, hand therapist.

I am also an adjunct professor for the Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program at Texas Woman’s University lecturing on brachial plexus birth palsy and anatomy of the upper extremity. Special interests include innovation of patient care through an interdisciplinary collaboration with the Engineering and Design program at Rice University.   

I believe the individuals who make the greatest impact on pediatric patients are their family. Weekly therapy cannot and should not take the place of therapist guided, parent executed therapeutic interactions in the home. Equipping parents to apply skills learned in therapy at home is always a priority. 

Clinical Interests:

I am interested in the care of children with various conditions impacting arm and hand function including: brachial plexus birth palsies, traumatic brachial plexus injuries, peripheral nerve injuries, tendon injuries, and congenital anomalies of the upper extremity.

Research Interests:

1) Improving caregiver experience within a multidisciplinary clinic

2) Improving caregiver competence and confidence in home program follow through

3) Custom, pediatric orthosis fabrication

4) Innovation in care through interprofessional collaboration