The role of the occupational therapist is to assist a patient in developing and/or regaining skills important for independent functioning, health and well-being. The OT works with the patient to improve or maintain their ability to perform activities of daily living that are meaningful to that individual at home, at work and in the community. The OT assists patients and their families in efforts to adapt to disruptions in lifestyle.
What Does the Occupational Therapist Do?
Assess and evaluate:
- physical function, including musculoskeletal system, joint function and limitations;
- cognitive and psychosocial factors affecting daily activities;
- performance of basic activities of daily living (like dressing, bathing, and mobility) and community living skills (like shopping, cooking, and transportation);
- the patient’s environment at home, school, work, and community to identify facilitators and barriers to daily function, roles and responsibilities;
- the need for adapted equipment, splints, and ergonomic modifications.
The OT works with the patient (usually referred to as the client) to develop an individualized treatment plan to achieve prioritized goals. The OT educates clients and their families to adapt environments, modify tasks, and use equipment to promote independent function and help gain or maintain full participation in self-care, daily home tasks, work or school, and leisure or play. The OT teaches principles of energy conservation, joint protection and stress management to minimize fatigue, reduce pain and improve safe performance in daily activities. Splints and equipment may be provided to improve or maintain function, reduce joint inflammation, prevent contractures, and decrease pain. When function is reduced by loss of strength, endurance or joint motion, the OT may use therapeutic exercise and activity programs to counter these problems. The OT assists in identifying personal and community resources. The OT may be involved in program planning, validation and research.
Where Does an Occupational Therapist Work?
The OT provides care in a variety of settings, including hospitals, physicians’ offices, nursing homes, hospices, rehabilitation centers, home health agencies, schools, industrial clinics, outpatient clinics, and private practice. A physician’s referral may be necessary to evaluate or treat a patient.
What Kind of Training Does an Occupational Therapist Have?
A practicing OT must have completed training at an accredited educational program, which is at the master’s degree level (as of 2007). All programs require a period of supervised clinical experience. After graduation, individuals must pass a national certification examination to become a registered occupational therapist. Occupational therapy is regulated in all states with a number of states requiring licensure to practice. OTRs may also pursue advanced certification in hand therapy, or pursue additional graduate education to assume roles in leadership and research.
Rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals
Learn more about rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals.
To find a rheumatologist or health professional
For a listing of rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals in your area, click here.
For more information
For additional information, contact the Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals at 2200 Lake Boulevard NE, Atlanta, GA 30319 or (404) 633-3777 or .
Revised:
October 2011, ARHP Practice Committee
This patient fact sheet is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnoses and treatment of a medical or health condition.
© 2011 American College of Rheumatology
