Maintaining a healthy body is the key to enjoying the things you love to do. Spending quality time with family and friends, playing sports, and going on vacations all require a body that can lift and hug, throw and kick, walk and hike. That’s why we eat healthy, exercise, and get plenty of sleep each night. However, some people may need a little extra care to continue enjoying life the way they want to. When it comes to physical activity, these people often seek out occupational therapy.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy (often abbreviated as OT) is a type of physical therapy that focuses on the joints and muscles you use most often for everyday activities. As the name implies, these can be activities for your job, but it also applies to household chores, caretaking, getting exercise, and everything else.
If you find yourself needing OT, you can expect to have appointments at a physical therapy clinic. During these appointments, you’ll work with an Occupational Therapist and Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) on various physical exercises. These exercises will aim to improve your range of motion and strengthen the key muscles you need to perform well at work and in life. Many activities are completed using only your body weight, but some may involve equipment such as stretch bands or exercise balls.
Who Needs Occupational Therapy?
Those who are experiencing a physical ailment or reduced range of motion for any reason may be advised to start occupational therapy. That being said, there are many reasons why people seek out the assistance of an OT.
Children with disabilities will often shy away from activity and social interactions. Occupational therapy works with these children to enhance physical abilities through play, sensory-friendly environments, and personal accommodations, both at home and in the classroom.
People of any age that are recovering from an injury or surgery will often go through physical therapy. In addition, those whose jobs depend on their body’s physical abilities may also go through OT.
Most of us will experience some decline in health as we get older. OT helps encourage productive aging by maintaining the person’s independence so they may continue to live a fulfilling life. In addition, OTs can help manage the transition for driving, loss of vision, and Alzheimer’s Disease.
How Can I Find Great Occupational Therapy Near Me?
You may receive a recommendation from your doctor, but if you are seeking OT on your own, you might not know where to go. Advanced Surgical Hospital offers friendly and compassionate care to patients of all ages and abilities. Our occupational therapy program has helped many people reduce their pain and continue enjoying all that life offers. To learn more about OT, please get in touch with our office. We work with patients, doctors, and hospitals from all over the Pittsburgh area, so you’re always well cared for.
