Occupational therapists and physical therapists both fall under the umbrella of the medical science of rehabilitation. Both want to help patients lead active, healthy lives. But they approach treatment from different mindsets. The main difference between occupational therapy and physical therapy is that occupational therapists focus on improving patients’ abilities to perform daily living activities, while physical therapists focus on helping patients overcome injuries or illnesses that limit their mobility.
The following blog post will explore the differences between the two types of therapy, how they work, and their benefits.
Similarities between occupational therapy and physical therapy
Overall goal
Occupational and physical therapists treat patients with similar goals in mind—to help them recover from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses faster and more effectively; to improve their quality of life and ability to function, and to help them maintain their health. Occupational therapists and physical therapists often work together to provide the best course of treatment for their patients.
Treatment
Both occupational therapists and physical therapists will often recommend the same course of treatment for patients who display similar health conditions, as both are involved in helping patients recover from or cope with their medical problems. Both types of therapy provide customized care to address the unique needs of each patient. Occupational therapists and physical therapists often work together to provide the best course of treatment for their patients.
There can be a lot of overlap between the tasks performed. For instance, occupational therapists may also show patients stretches or exercises. Physical therapists may work on movements to help with daily activities, like getting in and out of the tub.
Progress & Measures
Both types of therapy set goals and track your progress in achieving them. The outcomes evaluation ensures that you are moving toward achieving your therapy goals and allows for adjustments as needed.
Difference between occupational therapy and physical therapy
While occupational and physical therapy both treat the body, they take different approaches to recovery. Knowing these differences could help you make a better decision about the kind of treatment you need.
The main difference between occupational therapy and physical therapy is the scope of treatment. While physical therapists generally focus on helping patients move better, occupational therapists take a holistic approach to treatment. They work not only on physical functioning but also on social, emotional, and work-related situations.
Occupational therapists treat patients with conditions such as stroke or brain injury by focusing on activities of daily living (ADLs) and self-care skills. These tasks include dressing, bathing, eating, grooming, and other activities you may need help with when recovering from an injury or illness.
Physical therapists help patients overcome mobility issues due to illness or injury. They may use heat packs, electrical stimulation devices, and exercise programs to increase mobility and improve strength, flexibility, and endurance. Physical therapists also may prescribe specific exercises for patients who have chronic illnesses like heart disease or diabetes that affect their mobility over time.
Let’s see an example of both kinds of treatments to have a better understanding
A physical therapist may help someone with knee pain regain their mobility by performing exercises to strengthen their leg muscles and improve flexibility in the joint. If you suffer from chronic back pain, they may recommend heat or ice packs to help relax your muscles and reduce inflammation.
Occupational therapists work with children and adults who have functional limitations caused by illness, injury, disability, or age-related issues such as dementia or developmental delays. For example, they may help a child who has cerebral palsy learn how to use his or her hands more effectively through repetitive activities like coloring or cutting out shapes from paper. They also teach children how to do tasks that may be difficult for them because of their disorder or condition, like dressing themselves or using utensils at mealtime.
Closing Thoughts
So, which therapy is right for you? It depends on your needs and condition. Your doctor can help you decide, but there are many types of therapy to consider. Physical therapy focuses on restoring or improving movement and strength. Occupational therapy helps with the motor skills you need to perform daily tasks.
If you are looking for an Occupational therapist or a Physical Therapist in CT, USA, look no further than Healing Hands Therapy Center and book an appointment with Heather Mogielnicki; an experienced Certified Hand Therapist and Occupational Therapist who has been treating upper extremity injuries for the past 23+ years. She’ll provide you with the treatment needed to recover from injury and heal from within—so you can lead a healthier and happier life.
