Physical therapy and occupational therapy are two rather closely related fields—so closely that many people are under the impression that the terms are interchangeable. While both types of therapists may work with similar patients, injuries and conditions, there are distinct differences between the two. Here we'll go over those differences to help potential patients clear the air about these therapies, making it easier for them to pursue the most suitable treatment for their specific needs.

Occupational therapy is a rehabilitative specialty that provides therapeutic interventions that work to enhance patients' ability to participate in the meaningful activities of daily life, despite the presence of impairments in physical, mental or cognitive functioning. So who can benefit from occupational therapy? What can patients who undergo this type of therapy expect? To answer these questions and others for patients considering therapy, here is a brief guide to occupational therapy and how it works.

If you are rehabilitating from physical impairments resulting from illness or injury, physical and/or occupational therapy are likely to be recommended as part of that process. Often, patients who have been referred to these services are confused about the differences between these two similar forms of therapy. To help ease your way through your care planning efforts, here are 2 important differences between physical therapy and occupational therapy.

If you're an arthritis sufferer, occupational therapy is an important part of managing your symptoms. This is as true for the person newly diagnosed with arthritis as it is for those in its more advanced stages. That's because occupational therapy can help you learn how to minimize the impact of arthritis symptoms on your quality of life, giving you the tools you need to stay healthy and active and live life to the fullest. If you will be seeing an occupational therapist, here are 3 tips that can help you make the most of the experience.

If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you certainly don't need to be told that this disease can make daily life difficult. During a flare, when joints are swollen, stiff, and painful, or in the advanced stages of the disease, when gradual damage to joints impairs their function, even simple, everyday chores, tasks, and activities can become challenging ordeals. Occupational therapy for RA can make living with RA a bit easier, helping you maintain your independence and improve your quality of life.

Occupational therapy is designed to improve patients' lives by helping them regain the ability to perform important daily tasks after an illness, surgery, or accident. People of any age may need occupational therapy, but seniors make up the majority of patients – and they may also see the greatest results.

Occupational therapy (OT) was once known as the therapy that people who had been injured sought out in order to regain the ability to work. Over the years it has proven to be one of the most beneficial treatment options for those who wish to regain the ability to do everyday tasks such as reading and recalling information. Occupational therapists work with a variety of patients to provide the skills and information they need to meet these goals.

Here are five of the most common benefits of OT.

When you look at the phrase “occupational therapy,”you may think of work therapy. While ‘occupation’does equate to working in some aspects of the therapy, it isn’t the sole goal of treatment. In fact, the word ‘occupation’in this form of treatment encompasses anything from typing to tying shoes –basically anything that’s part of a healthy and productive life.

People with certain conditions have trouble accomplishing these tasks and turn to their doctors for help. As a first course of treatment, the doctor may recommend therapy and medication combined, but if the condition stops a person from performing necessary activities, he may suggest occupational therapy.