Imagine regaining the ability to tie your shoes after a stroke, drive again after an accident or cook a meal with ease despite arthritis. This is the power of occupational therapy (OT), a life-changing therapy that helps people reclaim their independence, no matter the challenge.

Occupational therapy is a type of rehabilitation therapy that helps people perform daily tasks and other activities safely and more easily after an illness or injury. This can include activities such as eating, bathing and making meals.

OT professionals are great at problem-solving. They work with everyone from children overcoming developmental delays to adults recovering from devastating injuries. Whether it's helping an athlete return to their sport after a fracture or guiding a stroke survivor through relearning daily tasks, OTs use evidence-based techniques to help patients regain function and confidence.

Occupational therapy helps with many conditions, from orthopedic injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome and shoulder tendonitis to complex neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis and brain injuries.

The occupational therapist’s professional “toolbox” includes techniques and tools such as hand therapy and custom splints, cognitive retraining, adaptive equipment, ergonomic interventions, lymphedema management and specialized massage techniques—all designed to help people get back to the life they love.

Quick Tips From Aultman’s Occupational Therapists

Aultman’s occupational therapists offer suggestions to reduce the risk of injuries around your home and office:

Work smarter, not harder, at your desk. Keep your workstation ergonomically sound – feet flat on the floor, elbows at a 90-degree angle and the top of the monitor at eye level. Use a lumbar support to protect your lower back.

Fall-proof your home. If you or a loved one is at risk of falling, remove throw rugs, declutter walkways and install grab bars in the bathroom – a top spot for serious falls.

Get ready for spring yard work. Before you spend hours gripping tools or wielding a power washer, remember to pace yourself! Overusing your hands and wrists can lead to painful tendonitis conditions such as tennis or golfer’s elbow. Take a break every 15-20 minutes.

OT is more than just recovery – it’s empowerment. It’s about finding new ways to thrive despite obstacles, overcome limitations and live life to the fullest. In April, let’s celebrate the power of occupational therapy. It doesn’t just change lives; it can restore freedom.

Giorgia Remark, OT, Aultman Therapy Services
Jessica Duke, OT, Aultman Therapy Services
The Diagnosis and Treatment Manual for Physicians and Therapists
The StayWell Company, LLC