The Differences Between Occupational Therapy vs. Physical Therapy in Kendall
Occupational therapy and physical therapy seem very similar at first. This is because they share several similarities. In fact, the two approaches actually complement each other frequently in practice. Nevertheless, they remain two distinct therapeutic interventions with unique definitions and purposes.
Physical therapy attempts to correct an individual’s physical impairments, whereas occupational therapy or OT seeks to teach specific techniques or actions that may result due to the impairment itself.
Furthermore, physical therapy concerns physically rehabilitating the body. The goal is improving present impairments through actions that remain designed to help patients decrease their pain while increasing their mobility. Contrarily, OT applies tools and techniques that benefit patients by enabling them to accomplish and complete everyday tasks that provide challenges as a result of their impairments.
Physical therapy and OT impart many areas where they overlap and do wield many similarities. Nonetheless, the differences, albeit minute in appearance, offer several distinct, individual benefits. For this reason, our team from Progressive Therapy Center is outlining some information on occupational therapy vs. physical therapy in Kendall.
An Overview of Occupational Therapy vs. Physical Therapy in Kendall
Occupational therapists work to aid patients in regaining their function after an illness or injuries. However, this course of treatment also applies to developmental delays like palsy, down syndrome, and autism. In fact, OT itself is a very uniquely individualized treatment course.
For example, individuals that suffer from traumatic injuries can rely on OT to mobilize themselves early and restore their function. This also helps them mitigate risks to worsen their condition. OT also helps the elderly deal with disabilities concerning their age.
Consequently, physical therapists focus on specific parts of the body that may suffer from trauma. This could reflect a fracture or a torn ligament. They may provide patients with specialized exercises to help them regain their function and mobility.
Both physical and occupational therapists cultivate and implement individualized care plans that they base on a patient’s disabilities, diseases, disorders, conditions, or physical injuries. They may work with a patient across the entirety of their lives.
This treatment course extends to helping kids that wield disabilities in their development, in addition to adults that experience cognitive and physical transformations. In order to find a PT or an OT, we can look in clinics, schools, rehabilitation providers, hospitals, nursing homes, and even inside of a patient’s home.
Defining the Purpose of Physical and Occupational Therapy
It isn’t uncommon for both physical and occupational therapists to work together harmoniously as they aid patients towards recovery. Nevertheless, their ultimate goal is what distinguishes occupational therapy vs. physical therapy in Kendall.
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist will analyze and determine a patient’s comprehensive, functional capacity, as well as their motor development and strength. They assess medical issues and health-related conditions while educating patients on condition management. As a result, they can work to prevent disabilities while promoting healthy, active lifestyles.
A benefit of physical therapy care takes place after examination and diagnosis. When physical therapists begin to implement the care plan, they can actually adjust treatment as a regimen goes on as necessary. These approaches will contain short- and long-term functional goals to help patients optimally rehabilitate and recover.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists focus on helping patients treat issues that result from the disability in contrast to the disability source itself. For this reason, their plan of action remains centered on offering treatment that can help patients achieve daily living activities. This might include dressing, cooking, using the restroom, etc.
An occupational therapy intervention will help patients reach their fullest potential in spite of a condition or a disability. This considers not only why a patient wields difficulty completing tasks, but also how their environment might play a role in debilitation. Furthermore, Occupational therapists address cognitive, physical, psychosocial, and sensory components to preeminent recovery.
Information on Occupational Therapy vs. Physical Therapy in Kendall from Progressive Therapy Center
Depending on a patient’s unique healthcare scenario, therapists assist with flexibility, strength, endurance, coordination, and balance. They will attempt to reduce pain and swelling, possibly even relying on techniques like manual therapy, hot, cold, ultrasound, etc.
If you suffer from a disease, condition, or disability that inhibits your ability to accomplish tasks, considering occupational therapy vs. physical therapy in Kendall for your specific needs is a prudent idea. To learn more, contact the dedicated team from Progressive Therapy Center today!