5 Reasons You Might Need Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a type of health care that may be less familiar to you than physical therapy. Some people think the two forms of therapy are the same, but although they are often prescribed in conjunction with one another, they each have a different purpose.
What is the difference between occupational and physical therapy?
Both types of therapy help people rehabilitate from an injury, surgery, pain, health condition or disability, but they vary in their focus. Physical therapy is designed to help patients improve how they move their body. Occupational therapy, on the other hand, helps patients improve how they perform activities of daily living.
What happens during occupational therapy?
“Occupational therapists help people maintain their independence as they learn or relearn how to perform skills that are needed to get them through their day,” said Lila Gordon, occupational therapist at PIH Health La Mirada Therapy. From getting dressed and brushing teeth to eating food and using a computer, this type of therapy helps a person live more independently. “Therapy may focus on adapting or changing how activities are performed, modifying the environment or teaching new skills so patients can perform activities in ways that are easier for them,” continued Gordon.
Why might you need occupational therapy?
There are many reasons why a person might benefit from occupational therapy. If you are struggling to perform everyday tasks due to an injury, illness or disability, occupational therapy may help. Here are some common reasons why people seek occupational therapy services.
1. Hand Therapy- Hand, wrist, and elbow rehabilitation is a specialty practice of occupational therapy. Since the goal of occupational therapy is to help keep individuals independent in their day-to-day activities the use of one’s hands is crucial. Occupational therapists work alongside doctors to help in traumatic post operative cases such as fractures and tendon ruptures, as well as chronic conditions like arthritis, nerve compression conditions and tendonitis that occur in the elbow, wrist or hand.
2. Stroke – This is a very common reason for people to see an occupational therapist. After a stroke, you may not be able to use part of your body like you once did or may experience balance, memory and speech issues. Occupational therapists help stroke patients adapt to their disabilities and learn new ways to do activities they used to perform.
3. Conditions that affect physical abilities – Anyone who has difficulty performing everyday tasks due to physical limitations may benefit from occupational therapy. This includes people who have cerebral palsy, joint replacement, cancer, chronic pain, balance issues or any other condition affecting the ability to perform everyday tasks easily, comfortably and successfully.
If you are having difficulty performing routine tasks, talk to your doctor about whether occupational therapy is right for you. For more information, visit PIHHealth.org/OT
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