When it comes to rehabilitation care, both physical and occupational therapy play an important role in helping individuals recover from injury, illness, or surgery. But while both types of treatment focus on restoring abilities that have been compromised, they each target unique areas of wellness. If you’re unsure whether you need occupational or physical therapy, consider this brief review of what each approach entails — and when they may be necessary.

Physical vs. Occupational Therapy

What Is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is designed to address musculoskeletal conditions that may impair a person’s ability to move or complete other standard tasks. For example, it may be used to help people recover after a hip replacement surgery, address herniated disc problems, or regain strength after a fall or fracture.

Each physical therapy program is customized to address the specific needs of the client. However, most plans involve forms of targeted exercise that help individuals regain flexibility, promote strength, and relieve pain. Further treatments involved in physical therapy may include massage, hot and cold therapy, or therapeutic stretching.

With continued practice, these corrective therapies will not only help restore a person’s abilities, but also reduce the risk of future injury.

What Is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy often builds upon the biomechanical aspects of physical therapy by addressing the ways that people can use their bodies to complete daily tasks. This type of therapy can help anyone who has a disability — including those who have a developmental disorder, are recovering from a stroke, or have endured a traumatic injury.

Like physical therapists, occupational therapists tailor programs to the specific needs of individuals. Using a variety of specialized tools, therapists will help clients relearn how to complete routine daily activities, such as using utensils, cooking, using the bathroom, and walking.

If full recovery isn’t possible, occupational therapists will teach clients alternative ways to complete essential tasks. For instance, they may alter their living environment to avoid problematic obstacles. Individuals might also learn how to use assistive devices to maintain a sense of independence.

Serving patients of all ages, WyndRidge Health & Rehabilitation Center is a leading resource for all those in need of outpatient therapy.  Located in Crossville, TN, this clinic is staffed by skilled specialists and backed by state-of-the-art tools to assist all types of rehabilitation —including those that require occupational, speech, or physical therapy. As a client, you can count on this team to provide personalized care designed to address your specific needs, support your comfort level, and help you gain a higher level of independence. For more information on their nursing home and outpatient services, visit this Cumberland County rehabilitation center online or call (931) 707-5687 today.