Both physical and occupational therapy are used to help individuals recover from injury or illness, allowing them to restore their functionality and quality of life. While there is some overlap between the two forms of therapy, there are also noteworthy differences. If you’re seeking the best form of treatment for your needs, discover whether you might benefit from physical, occupational, or both forms of therapy by reading through their key differences.

3 Ways Physical & Occupational Therapy Are Different

1. Goals

The purpose of physical therapy is to help a patient regain mobility and strength. It is also used to help individuals minimize risk of re-injury or future injuries. To achieve these goals, physical therapists treat the impairment directly. Occupational therapists, on the other hand, focus on helping patients find solutions or new approaches to navigate their daily routines.  

2. Scope of Treatment

While physical therapy treats the injury or impairment itself, occupational therapy targets the whole individual. For instance, occupational therapists ensure patients have solutions to manage every facet of their life as comfortably as possible. They might work on techniques and adaptations for going down the stairs, performing a work-related function, or cooking. These professionals might also implement tools to help their patients improve functionality.

3. Assessments  

During the initial phase of treatment, physical therapists assess the current status of the injury or impairment to formulate a treatment plan. During subsequent appointments, they’ll continue to monitor the condition to determine whether strength, mobility, and comfort levels have improved. Conversely, occupational therapists may visit the patient’s living or work environment to figure out which activities or areas should be addressed through treatment. In some cases, occupational therapy sessions may even be performed in these environments to ensure successful implementation.  

If you or a loved one could benefit from either physical therapy, occupational therapy, or both, The Road Home Therapy Center can help. Serving Church Point, LA, as well as the surrounding Lafayette and Opelousas areas, these caring therapists cater to their patients’ unique needs and use targeted, proven approaches to restoring functionality and quality of life. Learn more about their facility online or schedule an appointment by calling (337) 684-6318.