Benefits of Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy (OT) can help improve upper and lower body function, especially if you’re dealing with pain, weakness, injury, or limitations from a condition like stroke, arthritis, or a neurological disorder. Here’s how Occupational Therapy can help:
1. Strengthening and Range of Motion
Occupational Therapists often use targeted exercises to:
Build shoulder, arm, and hand strength
Improve flexibility and range of motion
Reduce muscle stiffness or spasticity
2. Functional Skills Training
OT’s will work with you on everyday tasks that involve the upper body, like:
Dressing (e.g., putting on a shirt or bra)
Cooking (e.g., lifting pots or opening jars)
Using tools or devices (like a keyboard or phone)
3. Adaptive Techniques and Tools
If there are physical limitations, an OT can teach you ways to:
Use your non-dominant side more effectively
Try assistive devices (e.g., long-handled reachers, ergonomic tools)
Modify tasks to make them easier and safer
4. Pain Management
They can help manage pain related to upper body use through:
Splinting or bracing
Ergonomic recommendations
Modalities like heat, cold, or TENS (depending on their training)
5. Neurological Re-education
If there has been a stroke or neurological injury, OT helps with:
Retraining fine motor skills
Regaining coordination and control
Improving sensory awareness
