There are many reasons why an individual may choose to seek the services of an Occupational Therapist. It could be due to an injury, illness or, neurodevelopmental disability. Occupational Therapy can provide a variety of benefits for all people, including adults, children, and seniors.
Seeing an occupational therapist in Durban is a good idea if you want to work on improving certain parts of your body such as your hand movements, or regaining function in a limb after an injury or illness. A person who sees an occupational therapist may improve their abilities in their daily life and at work.
Thinking about seeing an occupational therapist in Durban? Here are three benefits to look forward to…
3 Benefits of Seeing a Durban Occupational Therapist
Equipment Prescription
One of the most important things an occupational therapist can do is help you identify and overcome barriers that may be preventing you from doing your job or achieving your goals.
If you need to change your workstation or your equipment, an occupational therapist can work with you and your employer to make these changes. If you have a disability that requires any special tools, such as a wheelchair ramp for your home, an occupational therapist can help with the design and construction of these items.
Make Living with a Disability Easier
If you are living with a disability due to an injury or illness, an occupational therapist can help alleviate some of the stress that comes with it through education on how to live with your condition and the use of adaptive equipment that allows you to do things that were previously difficult or impossible.
Reduce Stress
An occupational therapist can teach you how to use adaptive equipment, such as hand-held canes, walking aids and wheelchairs, more effectively. This helps reduce the stress of having to rely on others for assistance.
Improve strength and flexibility. Often, adaptable equipment is used in addition to physical therapy exercises to increase your range of motion and improve muscle strength.
Maximise Independence
Depending on your injury or illness, using adaptive equipment can allow you to carry out everyday activities on your own again.
Occupational therapists also teach skills such as household management, meal preparation and laundry, so you can get back to your normal routine at home. The key is to practice these skills regularly over time, so they become second nature to you.
How Can an Occupational Therapist Help You?
Occupational therapists are health care professionals who work with patients to help them achieve everyday tasks. Occupational therapists treat people with conditions affecting their motor skills, sensory perception or daily living skills. They may use exercise or other treatments to increase a patient’s abilities in these areas.
Occupational therapists work with patients who have injuries or illnesses that affect their ability to do common tasks in everyday life, such as using household appliances, doing yard work or getting dressed.
Occupational therapists also help people who have problems with hand coordination, fine motor skills or strength due to aging, arthritis, stroke or other causes. Occupational therapists help people improve their balance through techniques such as walking on uneven surfaces, climbing stairs or riding a stationary bike. And they can show older adults how to adapt their homes so they are easier to navigate safely.
Experienced and professional OTs can help with all Activities of Daily Living, such as:
- Personal care, such as dressing, toileting, mobility and bathing
- Instrumental activities, like cooking, cleaning, paying bills and laundry
- Community access, such as visiting shops
- Work activities
- Leisure activities
When Do You Need to See an Occupational Therapist?
You may need an occupational therapist (OT) if you:
- Have a physical, neurological or mental condition that inhibits daily activities
- Experience developmental delays, learning problems or sensory disorders
- Struggle with mental health conditions, like anxiety
- Have autism or other intellectual disabilities
- Are recovering from an injury or illness
Expert Occupational Therapists in Durban
Vicki Hofmann and her team practice occupational therapy with a patient-centric philosophy aimed at reducing the barriers to success. They care about their clients and genuinely strive to help them achieve health, happiness, and fulfilment, and want to see every client attain a happy and independent life.
You can count on Vicki Hofmann Occupational Therapy to provide considerate, results-driven occupational therapy services that are delivered with care and passion. Contact the practice today for more information.
