Occupational Therapy gives people “the skills for the job of living.” Occupational therapists (OT) evaluate and treat patients to improve functioning in daily life activities such as getting dressed, toileting, bathing, cooking and recreational activities. Exercises include stretching, strengthening and flexibility. Sometimes, adaptive equipment is used to help the person eat, dress or bathe. OT helps speed recovery from injuries to the hand or arm to maximize function in ADLs, and recreational activities. Patients may use the arm bike, arm exercises with weights, or special “silly putty” to improve hand strength and dexterity. Anyone who needs treatment to facilitate independence in any aspect of their lives would benefit from occupational therapy services. OT focuses on restoration of range of joint motion, muscle strength, fine motor training, ADL training, and recommendations for job/home site modifications and adaptive equipment.
Occupational Therapy