Physical therapy (PT) is necessary for individuals with injuries, disabilities, or other health conditions affecting their mobility or the movement of their limbs. Physical therapists are licensed experts who often diagnose and evaluate physical impairments and treat them. They strive to enhance a person’s quality of life and range of motion. Occupational therapists are experts in helping individuals with physical, sensory, or cognitive issues reclaim their independence. The following are the basics of occupational and physical therapy.

Physical therapy vs. Occupational therapy
From the above definitions, occupational and physical therapy may sound similar. Both fall under the umbrella of rehabilitative sciences and need licenses for practice in almost all states. Both OT and PT are required for people with sensory, cognitive, or physical inabilities. However, there are some differences. Occupational and physical therapies have distinct approaches toward a patient’s rehabilitative needs. Physical therapy focuses on general movements and mobility, while occupational therapy focuses on the capability of an individual to perform activities of daily living – including grooming, bathing, cooking, and cleaning. They also use different types of equipment.

Occupational therapy – Equipment and goals
Therapists use several tools to enable the recovery of patients. Occupational therapy focuses on independence – skills, and fine motor abilities. These skills could include simple at-home tasks like self-care and coping strategies for success at work or home. OT focuses on physical, emotional, and environmental factors that affect participation and performance in meaningful activities. Standard occupational therapy equipment includes standing frames, special needs strollers, multisensory devices, and augmentative and alternative communication devices. Finally, the scope of occupational therapy includes fine motor skills, visual-perceptual skills, cognitive skills, and sensory-processing problems.

Physical therapy – Equipment and goals
Physical therapists are movement experts. They focus on the healing ability of patients and enable physical functioning and independence. They also have a preventive role in ensuring physical disability does not lead to other issues. Physical therapists focus on gross movements of the legs, arms, back, and other body parts. They aid in pain relief and enhance coordination, strength, and range of motion. Depending on the type of injury, multiple sizes and types of physical therapy equipment are available. The most common physical therapy equipment includes exercise balls, resistance bands, foam rollers, cuff bands, music gloves, and dumbbells.

Occupational and physical therapy courses
How to become an occupational therapist?
Occupational therapists must ideally have a bachelor’s degree in relevant areas like biology, health science, or psychology. They must also hold a graduate degree in occupational therapy. The therapist can choose between a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) or a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree. Several accredited institutions like UNE, Jefferson, and Bradly University offer occupational therapy courses. These courses include fieldwork for practical exposure as well. Irrespective of one’s choice, one must appear for the National Board of Certification of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) licensure exam.

How to become a physical therapist?
A doctorate in physical therapy (DPT) from a school recognized by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education is necessary for a physical therapist to practice in this country. They also need to clear the physical therapist licensing examination. The DPT curriculum includes biology, physiology, anatomy, communication, biomechanics, kinesiology, neuroscience, and clinical reasoning, typically lasting three years. Most physical therapy courses require a bachelor’s degree before one can enroll. Washington University, Berkeley, and Southeastern University are some institutions that offer physical therapy courses.

Occupational and physical therapy jobs
Occupational and physical therapists have clinics or private practices or may work in hospitals and other rehabilitation facilities like long-term residential centers and hospices. They may also operate in schools or fitness and sports centers. Some OTs and PTs are constantly on the move and do home visits to make their patients feel comfortable. With prolonged lifespans and people wanting to be active and independent longer, occupational and physical therapy jobs are in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth for OT will be 24% and 28% for PT by 2026. It is, however, essential to remember that occupational and physical therapy jobs require specific qualifications and licenses.

Occupational and physical therapy equipment for homes
If one visits a physical or occupational therapist regularly, one could invest in buying a few pieces of equipment for the home. Some basic equipment can help supplement the sessions and improve mobility and skills. Ice packs and hot packs can help soothe pain or cramping, especially if one has an injury or inflammation. Adjustable pulleys, treadmills, and exercise or med balls can also be useful. Weights of different sizes, foam rollers, gym balls, yoga mats, sliders, and stable bikes significantly improve physical and occupational functioning.