If you have been injured in an accident or have an illness that caused you to lose the ability to perform your regular daily routine, then you know how difficult ordinary tasks can be. What you may not realize, however, is how helpful occupational therapy can be in this situation.
Occupational therapists work in various settings, including hospitals, private practices, and physical therapy offices. Finding one may be what you need to return to your old, everyday life.
Regaining Control Of Movement
Muscles begin to atrophy quickly after an immobilizing injury, which limits your range of motion. It can make even the simplest movements seem impossible. Many patients turn to physical therapy to combat this effect, which is excellent. However, it is also worth seeking an occupational therapist while you search for physical therapy near me. They can work together to tailor a treatment plan that addresses your physical challenges from more than one angle.
Restarting Daily Routines
When you visit an occupational therapist, she will put you through a series of assessments to see what areas need the most attention. Generally, activities that you usually would do every day will take precedence. For example, learning new ways of getting dressed or using the restroom might be a primary focus of early sessions.
Building Self Confidence
One of occupational therapists’ most unsung roles is helping older adults avoid falls. This is important because falls are a leading reason seniors cannot remain in their homes. Occupation therapy combined with the best Philadelphia physical therapy can improve strength, coordination, and confidence to help older adults avoid falls and stay in their homes.
Supporting Symptom Management
Symptoms like pain, tingling, or a loss of balance can be debilitating. While medications and exercises can help some, others may persist. Working with an occupational therapist can help you learn new ways to manage these symptoms. For example, you might try visualization to lessen chronic pain or get fitted with a cane for support when you are unsteady.
Reducing Dependency on Others
The desire to be independent is an almost universal human trait. From childhood, people strive to do things independently and in their own way. However, an injury can quickly cause you to rely on others. Maybe you need someone to drive you to appointments or help prepare meals. Sometimes, you might need a steadying hand to use the restroom.
Relearning how to do these things can be incredibly frustrating. However, working with an occupational therapist can help. These professionals will help you relearn old skills and work to strengthen muscles so you can do more activities on your own. You might not get to the same physical capacity you had previously, but there is a good chance you’ll see some improvements over time.
Occupational therapists work with patients to help them relearn old skills. They also help you explore adaptive techniques so you can get the same tasks done in a new and different way. If you are having trouble with movement, your balance, or performing daily tasks, physical therapy treatment and seeing an occupational therapist might help.
»How Occupational Therapy Can Help You Return To Normal Life«