1. What Does An OT Do ?

Occupational therapists work with people of all ages. The therapist looks at how you perform an activity or task, and they begin by looking at strengths and challenges before curating a programme of exercises and activities that focus on targeted motor skills. OT is tailored for each individual’s needs, to improve the way you do move to make it easier or less painful. Strategies include promotive, preventive, and rehabilitative.

2. What To Expect ?

At your first appointment, the OT will assess your needs which may also include your environment ie home / workplace or school. You may be advised to move furniture, get an assistive device like a cane or grabber and you will be guided on how you could perform daily chores better. Next, they’ll work with you to come up with a therapy plan and set goals designed for your needs, disability, or limits. Your OT can train you to adapt your movements, improve your motor skills or hand-eye coordination, or do tasks in new ways.
This type of treatment can help if you have pain, injury, illness, or a disability that makes it hard for you to do your job or schoolwork, care for yourself, complete household chores, move around, or take part in activities.

3. What is Hand Rehabilitation ?

Hand rehab involves the evaluation and treatment of injuries and conditions of the upper limb using a number of therapeutic interventions to help return a person to their highest level of function.

Hand therapists provide non-operative interventions, preventative care and post-surgical rehabilitation for varying conditions from simple fingertip injuries to complex replanted extremities. Patients with chronic conditions, ie arthritis, neurologic conditions such as a stroke can also benefit from hand rehab. Commonly a variety of techniques and tools are utilized, including activity and exercise programmed, custom orthotic fabrication, management of pain/swelling and wound/scar care.