Occupational Therapy vs. Physical Therapy: What to Know

Physical therapy and occupational therapy are two types of rehabilitative care. The goal of rehabilitative care is to improve or prevent the worsening of your condition or quality of life due to an injury, surgery, or illnesWhile there are some similarities between physical therapy and occupational therapy, there are also key differenceThis article will take a closer look at both types of therapies, the benefits they offer, and how they differ from one another.

What are the key differencePhysical therapy, also known as PT, focuses on helping improve your movement, mobility, and function. A physical therapist may do this by using a variety of exercises, stretches, or other physical activitieFor example, someone who has had knee replacement surgery may visit a physical therapist as part of their recoverThe physical therapist will work with the patient to help strengthen their knee and increase the range of motion in their knee joint. This can help them move more easily with less pain and discomfort.

Occupational therapy, also known as OT, focuses on helping you perform daily tasks more easily. This type of therapy focuses on improving your fine and gross motor skills so you can carry out specific day-to-day activities. The occupational therapist will also focus on making your home or school environment more optimal for your everyday life.

For example, an occupational therapist may help someone recovering from a stroke relearn how to do daily tasks, like dressing or eating with utensils. They may also make changes in the home, like installing a grab bar in the showerWhat are the similaritiDespite their differences, there are some ways that PT and OT are similar. These includOverall purpose. PT and OT both aim to improve your overall functioning, quality of life, and knowledge about how to maintain your health

and well-beinConditions. There’s considerable overlap with the health conditions for which both therapies may be recommendDesign. Both types of therapy provide hands-on care that’s tailored to the patient’s specific neeTasks. There can be some overlap in the tasks performed. For example, occupational therapists may also teach stretches or exercises. Physical therapists may work on movements to help with daily activities, such as getting in and out of the tGoals and monitoring. Both types of therapy set goals and assess your progress as you work to achieve them.