Joel Burns
(OTR/L, CHT)
My name is Joel Burns, and I am an Occupational Therapist and Certified Hand Therapist at Carolina Prime Physical Therapy.
My journey into occupational therapy began at Catawba Valley Community College, where I attended from 1992 to 1994. I continued my education at Lenoir-Rhyne College before entering the Occupational Therapy program in 1996 and graduating in 1999 Cum Laude. In November 2007, I achieved a personal and professional goal by earning my certification as a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT).
Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to help patients regain their independence, improve their mobility, and return to the activities they enjoy. After many years of serving patients at Wilkes Regional Medical Center, I retired from the hospital in 2022. During my time there, I had the pleasure of meeting Scott and Heather Forrest, which eventually led me to become part of the Carolina Prime Physical Therapy team. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue using my experience and skills to make a positive difference in the lives of my patients.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family. I married my high school sweetheart, Donna, and together we have two children, April and Seth, and a grandson, Graham. I am also active in my church and enjoy playing golf in my free time.