Many clients are familiar with physical therapy and may even have had these services in the past. Physical therapists are specialists who undergo extensive education and training on how to address physical limitations to optimize function. Physical therapists provide strength, range of motion, endurance, and balance training for those experiencing chronic conditions or recent injuries. They also play an important role as a member of the pain management team, utilizing their expertise to assist clients with learning how to perform safe movements and trust their bodies again.
Occupational therapists often work hand in hand with physical therapists to achieve optimal outcomes. The term “occupational” in their title does not mean they assist people at their place of employment; rather, they view “occupations” as activities or tasks that occupy people’s time throughout their day, week, or even lifetime.
Occupational therapy is a form of rehabilitation that provides interventions to assist people with participating in life as independently and safely as possible.
Occupational therapists are trained to assist people with performing activities (or occupations) that they need or want to do throughout a lifetime. These activities can be as simple as a morning self-care routine, or as complex as driving or returning to work. Occupational therapists (or OTs) specialize in activity analysis, which is the process of identifying barriers and challenges that prohibit people from completing their daily activities. These barriers can be physical, environmental, social, behavioral, emotional, or a combination of all of the above. Once these barriers are identified, OTs provide client-centered interventions to promote recovery, wellness, and independence.
As occupational therapists, we see people as more than a diagnosis.
Occupational therapists know that people are much more than their circumstances and we take pride in providing a holistic approach to care. When someone is prevented from engaging fully in their daily activities, they can experience depression, isolation, hopelessness, and a general decline in their overall quality of life. People living with chronic pain in particular tend to feel limited in their ability to engage fully in their daily activities. Your occupational therapist will work with you to identify the tasks you need and want to do, the barriers that are keeping you from doing them, and the strategies that will help get you back on track.
What makes SPMS unique is an occupational therapy-based program called Lifestyle Redesign®.
Based on two famous studies from the University of Southern California (Well Elderly Study I and Well Elderly Study II), Lifestyle Redesign® is a program designed to address behaviors, habits, and healthcare beliefs that limit or prevent wellness. Through clinical assessments, education, and individualized interventions, your therapist will incorporate principles of Lifestyle Redesign® to maximize your success in achieving lasting chronic pain relief. Visit Lifestyle Redesign® to learn more.