Occupational therapy is an important part of the healing process for many individuals. It can help with pain management, injuries, and surgery recovery, as well as improve mobility and restore regular strength and function.
But, if you’re new to occupational therapy, you may be wondering — what exactly happens during an occupational therapy session? What can I expect?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the various activities that physical therapists (like us) may perform during a session to give you a little insight into what to expect if you’re considering inquiring about more information and booking an appointment.
Assessing The Patient
The first step in any occupational therapy session is to assess the patient. This includes taking into consideration any factors that may have caused your current condition such as your detailed medical history and any recent injuries or illnesses you may have had.
Then, your OT will perform a physical examination to identify any areas of concern that you may have not mentioned. This assessment helps your OT determine which treatments are most appropriate for your condition and is an essential part of the process.
Developing a Treatment Plan Tailored To You
Once your initial assessment is complete, your OT will then develop an individualized treatment plan designed for you. This is because, like most OTs, we know that no two patients’ pain experiences are the same which is why it’s essential to individualize each treatment plan as such.
Typically, your plan will include specific exercises and activities designed to improve your strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Each exercise will have its own unique purpose in your healing process.
Carrying Out Your Treatment
During each session, your OT will carry out treatment according to the individualized plan that they come up with for you. These treatments may include stretching exercises, strengthening exercises, balance training, posture correction techniques, manual therapy techniques, and other modalities of treatment that your clinic may offer.
Your OT will also provide education about managing your pain or preventing further injury. Your OT will be with you every step of the way to ensure that you’re performing each exercise properly so you don’t become injured or make the pain you’re already experiencing worse.
Evaluating Your Progress
At each session, your OT will evaluate how well you are progressing with your treatment plan. They may ask questions about how you’re feeling after completing certain exercises or activities and if you’re noticing any positive or negative changes in the process. Depending on your answers, your OT might modify your treatment plan to better fit your needs to ensure that it’s most effective in helping you win back your life and reach your goals.
Conclusion
Occupational therapists play an essential role in helping patients recover from injury, pain, or illness by providing individualized care tailored to each person’s needs. With us here at Hands-On Therapy Services, you can expect to feel supported by your physical therapist and that you’re finally making the progress you need so you can get back to living an active lifestyle without limitations.
If you’re interested in occupational therapy after reading this post and are looking for an OT in the Miami area, then be sure to contact us here at Hands-On Therapy Services. We are the solution you’ve been tirelessly searching for when it comes to pain management and recovery.
About the author – Hoang Tran; an expert in physical & occupational therapy
Hoang Tran is a Miami certified hand therapist , the owner of Hands-on Therapy Services and the author of the book “The Hands-On Approach”. She loves helping people with hand, neck and shoulder problems because she knows how bad and debilitating they can get if not addressed and treated properly (once and for all!).
The aim of her occupational therapy practice is to bring patients back to full functionality, without pills, injections or surgery. Occupational and Physical Therapy are both offered at Hands-On Therapy by our experienced therapists who provide a comprehensive approach to your care.
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A Discovery Visit is for someone who is not sure therapy with us can help them, wants to speak with the specialist to feel confident that therapy is the right choice for them, and is SURE they don’t want to live in pain, worry, and feeling like they can’t do certain things just because of the pain.
PS. Seven step-by-step tips that you can start right away to recover quicker after hand, wrist or shoulder surgery. Click for the After Surgery Guide.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
