Patients who have survived a stroke often experience pain that must be addressed to improve functional performance.The American Stoke Association says 84% of stroke survivors develop shoulder pain due to motor weakness and shoulder subluxation. Skilled professionals such as occupational therapy practitioners can address pain using treatment interventions such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, physical modalities, and patient/caregiver … [Read more...]
OT
Supporting Aging in Place
Occupational therapy practitioners have unique training and knowledge to meet the needs of the aging population.The United States Census Bureau reports that Baby Boomers (which generally refers to people born between years 1946-1964) should reach at least 65 years of age by the year 2030. Not only is the number of older adults in the United States increasing at a rapid rate, but they are also living longer.   Recommended course: Supporting Aging in … [Read more...]
A Brief Guide to OT Interprofessional Practice
Interprofessional Education (IPE) and Interprofessional Practice (IPP) are beneficial for healthcare consumers and healthcare providers.Al Roker from The Today Show publicly stated how his Autistic son, Nick, improved after receiving occupational and speech therapy services. Research shows that Autistic children benefit from a combination of both therapies. A collaborative approach to treatment creates better outcomes for the child and their families. … [Read more...]
Issues with Connective Tissues: EDS for OTs
EDS mainly affects the connective tissue holding the joints together - The connective tissue is looser for people with EDS. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a rare disease occurring in approximately 1 in 5,000 people. EDS can result from a gene mutation that can be inherited, or it can occur without a family history. There are 13 subtypes of EDS, with Classical and Hypermobile-Type being the most common prevalent. Recommended course: Connective Tissue … [Read more...]
Occupational Therapy and Home Health Care
For occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) who are looking for flexibility, autonomy, and an occupation-based practice, home health care may be an option worth investigating.According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS, 2022), "OT is an integral component of rehabilitative services in physical, cognitive, and psychosocial impairment. OT is based on purposeful, goal-directed activity (occupation). The goal of OT is to prevent, … [Read more...]
Becoming A Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist
A comprehensive rehabilitation approach is vital to stroke recovery.According to the CDC, every 40 seconds someone in the United States suffers from a stroke. Every year alone, more than 795,000 people in the U.S. will experience a stroke. A comprehensive rehabilitation approach is vital to stroke recovery.  The National Institute of Neurologist Disorders reports strokes as the number one cause of serious adult disability in the US and the world. Strokes … [Read more...]
Improving Occupational Performance for People With ADHD
Occupational therapists (OTs) have an essential role in improving occupational performance for people with ADHD.Six million children aged 3-17 have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), according to the 2016-2019 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The National Institute of Mental Health cites the prevalence of ADHD diagnoses in adults aged 18 to 44 as 4.4%.  Some signs and symptoms of ADHD are … [Read more...]
Stroke Symptoms for Occupational Therapists
As with many acute medical situations, early identification and intervention of stroke symptoms are key.A stroke, also called a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is the fifth leading cause of death and disability in the United States according to the American Stroke Association. Strokes are caused by a disturbance of oxygen and blood flow to the brain which results in the death of brain cells that can cause difficulties with various bodily … [Read more...]