Conditions that May Improve with Occupational Therapy

To the everyday person, it may be difficult to clearly understand what the duties of an occupational therapists are. Many people struggle to notice the difference between an occupational therapist and a physical therapist when it comes to their service areas. While they both provide hands-on services, physical therapists mainly work with individuals recovering from an injury while occupational therapists help patients improve their ability to perform daily tasks. There are particular instances where the patient may be recovering from an injury as well but they also work to improve patient’s emotions, behavior, and cognitive disabilities.

With such a wide area of expertise, occupational therapists can work with a variety of patients to improve their specific conditions. There are a few common conditions that occupational therapists address such as chronic pain and injuries, but there are also a few surprising conditions that they may improve. Here are a few.

Delayed Development

This term is used to describe a child that is failing to reach particular developmental milestones. These specified milestones include motor skills, language and speech, problem solving, and self-help. These areas accurately gage the development of a child. An occupational therapist can assist by providing fun and engaging ways for a child to fine tune motor and behavioral skills that will allow them to successfully participate and grow through the schooling process.

Mood Disorders

One of the more surprising conditions addressed by occupational therapist is mood disorders. A mood disorder can cause irritability, extreme depression or excitement. Of all the mood disorders, depression is one of the most prevalent, affecting over 15 million Americans. A person suffering from depression may be uninterested, fatigued, and in extreme cases may contemplate suicide.

This makes the role of an occupational therapist all the more important. An occupational therapist will evaluate the patient, identify goals, monitor his or her response, and educate caregivers, family members, and friends on how to collaboratively treat this disorder.

Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is most common in aging individuals and progressively affects the nervous system. This disease happens in stages and can progress from a patient having a slight tremor in their hand to uncontrollable, full-body tremors. Parkinson’s can even cause stiffness and slowed movements. An occupational therapist can provide treatments, accommodations, and a suggested course of action to help a patient manage Parkinson’s disease.

As an occupational therapist, you have the ability to support patients suffering from all of the aforementioned conditions and many more. Ardor Health Solutions can help you find the occupational therapy career best for you by analyzing your skillsets, experience, and preferences. Our job listings page is constantly updated with a wide range of career opportunities in the medical field. Take a look or give us a call today at 855 GO-ARDOR.