Occupational Therapy Service Now Available

Chronic pain...Arthritis...Learning disabilities...If your life has been disrupted by one of these conditions, Occupational Therapy can help you gain independence and lead a more productive, satisfying life.

Occupational Therapy involves the manipulation of joints, muscles and bones through the sue of modalities. These include exercises and activities to increase range of motion, strength, coordination, and endurance.

“Patients work to gain independence in daily living and related self-care skills,” said Lori Layton, L.P.T., Director of Physical Therapy. People with arthritic conditions might find a simple activity such as combing the hair very difficult. In therapy, this skill is practiced as an exercise to increase arm and shoulder mobility.

People of all ages can benefit fro the program – form infants with pediatric collagen diseases, disabilities and emotional disturbances, to elderly persons with arthritic conditions, cancer, heart disease and impaired cognitive functions. Occupational Therapy exercises can also help people suffering from the following illnesses:

• hand trauma, nerve injuries, tendon injuries,
• burns
• neurological dysfunction, i.e. stroke, tumor, multiple sclerosis, neuropathy
• arthritis
• chronic pain
• cardiac-pulmonary conditions

“After an indepth assessment, a rehabilitation program will be outlined to assist patients in obtaining their maximal functional level within the imitations of their prognosis,” said Layton. “The therapist may also be called upon to fabricate plastic splints to support weakened limbs, prevent deformities or increase the function of joints”

The occupational therapist brings knowledge, patience and optimism to a situation previously filled with pain and frustration. Together with patients and their families, the therapist works to achieve the maximal level of esteem and independence.

Occupational Therapy services are now available within Richmond Heights General Hospital's Physical Therapy Department. A doctor's referral is required to enter either an outpatient or inpatient program. For more information please contact Lori Layton, L.P.T., Physical Therapy Director, at 585-6442.