Welcome to our FAQ section, where we address the most common questions people have about Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physiotherapy. Whether you’re exploring therapy options for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to understand the roles these therapies play in enhancing quality of life, promoting independence, and aiding recovery.
Occupational Therapy focuses on helping individuals perform everyday activities—like dressing, cooking, or returning to work—through personalized rehabilitation plans. It’s all about improving functional independence in daily living, especially for those recovering from injury, managing chronic illness, or facing developmental challenges.
Physiotherapy, on the other hand, emphasizes movement and physical function. Through exercises, manual therapy, and education, physiotherapists work to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore physical strength after surgery, injury, or illness.
In this FAQ, we’ll cover common topics such as the differences between OT and Physiotherapy, the types of conditions they treat, what to expect during sessions, and how to get started with the right therapy for your needs. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare journey. For any other questions – get in touch with us.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy (OT) is a healthcare profession that helps people of all ages perform everyday tasks and activities. It focuses on improving individuals' physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities to enhance their independence and quality of life. Occupational therapists assess challenges and strengths, then create personalized strategies, such as exercises or environmental modifications, to support tasks like dressing, working, or socializing. OT is used in various settings, from helping children with developmental delays to supporting adults recovering from injuries or illnesses. The goal is to empower individuals to engage fully in daily life.
What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession focused on improving movement, function, and overall physical well-being. It helps people recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, and prevent future issues by addressing physical impairments. Physiotherapists assess movement problems and develop individualized treatment plans, often using exercises, manual therapy, and techniques like heat or cold therapy. Physiotherapy is used in various settings, from rehabilitation after surgery or injury to managing long-term conditions like arthritis or stroke. Its goal is to restore mobility, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life by promoting physical independence and overall health.
How can Physiotherapy help me?
Physiotherapy can help you by improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing overall physical function. Whether you're recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or seeking to prevent future issues, a physiotherapist will assess your needs and create a personalized treatment plan. Through targeted exercises, manual therapy, and techniques like heat or cold therapy, physiotherapy helps restore movement, increase strength, and improve flexibility. It can also assist with managing long-term conditions such as arthritis, back pain, or post-surgical recovery, helping you regain independence and achieve a better quality of life.
What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a type of psychotherapy designed to help individuals manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Originally developed for people with borderline personality disorder, it is now widely used for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and self-harming behaviors. DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to teach skills in four key areas: emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. The therapy helps individuals balance acceptance of their current situation with making positive changes, ultimately leading to better emotional stability and improved quality of life.
How does Occupational Therapy work?
Occupational therapy (OT) works by helping individuals develop or regain the skills needed for everyday activities, or 'occupations.' An occupational therapist assesses a person’s physical, mental, and emotional challenges, then creates a customized intervention plan. This may involve exercises, adaptive techniques, or modifying the environment to improve functional abilities in areas like self-care, work, or social participation. OT also addresses emotional and cognitive well-being, providing strategies to manage stress or anxiety. By focusing on practical, meaningful tasks, occupational therapy empowers individuals to live independently and engage fully in their daily lives.