Occupational Therapy for Arthritis (Arthritis Physical and Occupational Therapy)

Why it is done

Right after your arthritis diagnosis is a good time to see an occupational therapist, says Carole Dodge, an occupational and hand therapist at the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor. Still, it’s never too late to get an OT’s help. Many people with arthritis seek the expertise of an OT when they realize that arthritis is making certain work activities or simple tasks like buttoning a shirt difficult. Your primary care physician can refer you. 

Risks

No known risks associated with occupational therapy

Procedure

What to Expect From Your First Occupational Therapy visit 

The first visit with an arthritis patient typically involves learning what activities they engage in, particularly anything that is difficult because of their arthritis, followed by a physical exam. 

What to Expect During Ongoing Occupational Therapy 

The plan could include custom-fitting splints or supports that can ease stress on painful joints and help prevent deformity. Occupational therapists also teach people how to protect their joints by performing tasks in different ways than they’re used to, such as using both hands or using an assistive device. Keep in mind, arthritis is a chronic disease, so it will continue and change over time. Occupational therapy is a good option for anyone with arthritis or related conditions interested in learning how to handle everyday tasks that are becoming more challenging. 

Results

If you have arthritis, there are many benefits to participating in a physical and occupational therapy program, including:

• You gain education about your type of arthritis, so that you can be well informed.
• You gain foot-care advice, including information on well-fitting shoes with shock-absorbing outer soles and sculptured (orthotic) insoles molded exactly to the contour of each foot.
• You will learn therapeutic methods to relieve discomfort and improve performance through various physical techniques and activity modifications.