What can Occupational Therapy provide for Osteoarthritis?
An occupational therapist or an occupational therapy assistant would work on maintaining the functions of the joint that is affected by osteoarthritis. Meaning, slowing down the progression of the disease in the joint to prevent further damage. Also, developing strength in the joint affected. Working on maintaining and strengthening the joint affected by osteoarthritis is particularly important to a person with osteoarthritis to be able to perform activities or tasks throughout their day.
Therapeutic exercises and activities are included in treatment as well as physical agent modalities (images provided below). During treatment, the therapist would ask to not overdue yourself, or know your limit of pain. Splinting is also something that can be discussed and provided by occupational therapy. Physical agent modalities and splinting are both techniques intended to relieve and/or prevent pain (images provided below). Also, information concerning precautions outside of the treatment session can be provided. Some information may include; taking rest breaks throughout the day, avoiding repetitive motions, and protection of joints during activities or task.
Roller, C. October 22, 2012. Personal Communication
Therapeutic exercises and activities are included in treatment as well as physical agent modalities (images provided below). During treatment, the therapist would ask to not overdue yourself, or know your limit of pain. Splinting is also something that can be discussed and provided by occupational therapy. Physical agent modalities and splinting are both techniques intended to relieve and/or prevent pain (images provided below). Also, information concerning precautions outside of the treatment session can be provided. Some information may include; taking rest breaks throughout the day, avoiding repetitive motions, and protection of joints during activities or task.
Roller, C. October 22, 2012. Personal Communication
Examples of the following are offered in occupational therapy:
Physical Agent Modalities
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Joint Protection Techniques
Early, M.B. November 28th, 2012. Physical Dysfunction Practive Skills for the Occupational Therapy Assistant. Pg. 192-195 |
Splinting
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