What Is Occupational Therapy?

Are There Alternatives?

Occupational therapy may be used together with other therapies, including physical therapy and speech therapy. If occupational therapy has been recommended by a doctor or another healthcare professional, the patient is strongly advised to receive the therapy so they can recover as effectively as possible. Patients may wish to ask their doctor about possible alternatives to this therapy before making a decision on treatment. If outpatient occupational therapy is difficult for the patient to attend, it may be possible to have the therapy at home. Long therapy sessions can be shortened if this helps the patient feel more comfortable. Patients and their families should communicate with the occupational therapist about any concerns they have so these can be addressed. Patients may also wish to ask their occupational therapist about exercises or activities they can do at home between treatment sessions.