Occupational therapy helps people improve activities of daily living after an illness, injury or surgery. Whether it’s buttoning a shirt, gripping a golf club or returning to full function at work, the experts at Southeast Georgia Health System can help you be as active and independent as possible.
Reviewed 1/31/2023
Sources
- Arthritis Foundation. "Occupational Therapy for Arthritis." https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/physical-therapies/occupational-therapy-for-arthritis.
- American Occupational Therapy Association. "What Is Occupational Therapy?" https://www.aota.org/-/media/corporate/files/practice/manage/presentation-resources/brochure/what-is-ot-brochure.pdf.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Occupational Therapists." https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapists.htm.
Occupational therapy: True or false?
If you have an accident, illness or other health problem that makes everyday activities difficult, occupational therapists are here to help. Do you know all the ways these specialists can help you live independently?
True or false: Occupational therapy is only appropriate for people with severe, permanent disabilities.
False. This therapy can help people facing a wide range of health challenges. It can, for example, help people with wrist injuries return to their jobs and hobbies. It may help those with arthritis protect their joints by performing tasks differently. And it can help stroke survivors learn new ways to do daily tasks, like dressing and cooking.
True or false: Occupational therapy is most helpful for older adults.
False. Occupational therapists can help children with trouble concentrating succeed in school. They can help youngsters with autism learn to socialize. And they can help kids who use wheelchairs play with peers. They can even help babies and toddlers meet developmental milestones if they're at risk for delays.
True or false: Part of occupational therapists' expertise is helping patients use special equipment.
True. Occupational therapists may suggest adaptive devices—such as wheelchairs, leg braces or eating aids—to help people be more independent. They can also help people modify their homes or workplaces to accommodate their needs and restrictions.
True or false: Occupational therapists tailor their care plan to each person—and each person's own needs and preferences.
True. Occupational therapists help people meet goals that matter to them, whether that's driving, visiting friends or improving memory. They also work closely with family members to help them support these goals.
True or false: Occupational therapy is reserved for those with physical problems.
False. Occupational therapists also help people with a mental illness or emotional problems. They might help them manage activities that otherwise seem overwhelming, such as budgeting, using public transportation or keeping up with household chores.
Discover what other types of therapy might help you or a loved one live more fully when coping with an injury or illness.
Visit the rehabilitation health topic center
Sources: American Occupational Therapy Association; U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Our occupational therapy expertise
Our licensed occupational therapists have many years of experience. They can address a wide range of concerns, including:
- Cognitive impairment
- Hand and upper-extremity injuries
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Rehabilitation after surgery, such as joint replacement
- Stroke
Our team also includes pediatric occupational therapy experts, who provide care as part of our collaboration with Wolfson Children’s.
How our occupational therapists work with you
Occupational therapy starts with an evaluation by our team. Next, we’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your therapy needs and personal goals.
We will make sure that you know what to expect from your journey, such as how long and how often you may need therapy and what types of treatments could be helpful. Depending on your needs, these treatments may include:
- Custom splints
- Exercise
- Heat or cold therapy
- Manual therapy
- Ultrasound
How to get occupational therapy
We provide occupational therapy on an outpatient and inpatient basis, as well as in our Senior Care Centers.
To make an appointment for outpatient care, ask your provider to send us a referral.