Occupational therapy, similar to some types of physical therapy treatment, promotes well-being, health, and participation for individuals. Good candidates for OT are those who have been in an accident, have recently had surgery, or are dealing with a disability. Occupational therapists use different practices and therapies to help patients regain the ability to perform daily activities. Occupational therapy consists of a variety of practices to improve day to day life.
Occupational Therapy Practices
When searching for physical therapists near me, you may want to ask if they also provide occupational therapy. OT is beneficial for those with:
- Paralysis
- Brain-related medical conditions such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia
- Skeletal, joint, or muscle issues
- Mental illness
- Developmental disorders
- Amputations or prostheses
To start a session, an occupational therapist discusses with you your life experiences, medical history, interests, and goals for therapy. This helps the therapist determine what activities are important to you, which helps with the design of a treatment plan. The therapist will then outline a customized plan to meet your goals and values. Some of the things you may receive from occupational therapy include:
- Medical aids or adaptive equipment, such as a walker or shower chair
- Perception and movement exercises
- Retraining of daily skills, such as preparing food or bathing
- Memory and concentration exercises
- Working on skills used for work, school, or social situations
- Manual exercises
Part of the therapy sessions may include modifying your workplace or home. The therapist may also provide training for family members or caretakers to better care for you and help you work on the skills practiced in therapy sessions.
Throughout the treatment sessions, the occupational therapist will evaluate the current treatment plan and the progress you are making. He or she will make changes or additions, if necessary, to reach your goals.
How It Can Help You
Depending on your specific situation, occupational therapy can help in a variety of ways. Its ultimate goal is for you to be able to partake in daily activities. If dealing with a medical condition, OT may help you:
- Learn proper breathing techniques so you do not lose your breath doing regular activities
- Simplify daily activities to save your energy
- Improve your strength and balance
For brain injuries, OT may help improve memory and concentration or reteach activities such as getting dressed. For newly amputated patients, an occupational therapist may help the patient learn how to get around or use a prosthesis.
Each occupational therapy patient has unique needs, so how it can benefit you varies based on your circumstances and goals. It may be as simple as structuring your daily routine or preventing falls. Occupational therapists are professionals who know how to evaluate a patient and ask the right questions to determine how to proceed with treatment.
Occupational therapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments or therapies. If necessary, your therapist will recommend additional services. For example, if improved movement is a goal, you may be given referrals for physical therapy near me. Your therapist’s goal is to give you more control over your life.
