While both physical and occupational therapy provides patients with rehabilitative services that help them take back their lives, there are distinct differences between the two. Understanding these differences helps you determine what you or a loved one needs to recover quickly and safely. Some patients opt for both services to hasten their recoveries.

Physical vs. Occupational Therapy

Treatment Approaches

Physical therapists focus on pain relief, mobility, and bone and joint alignments. They treat specific injuries or impairments — such as those following an automobile accident, serious illness, or major surgery — to restore the patient’s range of motion and improve muscle strength. Physical therapy services also include creating wellness programs that encourage stretching, exercising, and other healthy habits.

Occupational therapy treats the entire person instead of specific injuries or mobility issues. Treatment is, therefore, not limited to physical injuries, as occupational therapy also treats cognitive and developmental problems or conditions. Therapists help patients with daily tasks such as dressing while providing life skill assessments and assistance. Some occupational therapists assist patients in school or those with memory loss. Occupational therapists also make recommendations to help their patients enjoy life without mobility issues or other physical and emotional pains.

Education & Licensing

Physical therapists typically have master’s and doctoral degrees and must pass the National Physical Therapist Examination to obtain their licenses. Passing the exam is required to practice in their respective states. Occupational therapists have master’s degrees, with some also opting for their doctorates.  Like physical therapists, they must pass national examinations for licensing purposes.

Whether physical or occupational therapy is right for you, find what you need at The Road Home Therapy Center in Church Point, LA. The rehabilitation center has provided residents throughout the Lafayette and Opelousas areas with specialized services since 1978, including short and long-term options as well as speech therapy. Call (337) 684-6318 today to schedule an appointment or visit the center online for more therapy information.