Occupational therapy can be widely beneficial for many different conditions. Injured soldiers, recovering athletes or seniors with Parkinson’s may rely on occupational therapy to help them manage symptoms in their regular environments. Our therapists at Root Therapy & Wellness address your psychological and social well-being in addition to helping you achieve normal tasks, making treatment vital for physical and mental health. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment!
What Is an Occupational Therapist?
An occupational therapist (OT) is a healthcare professional who helps you with physical, developmental, or emotional disabilities overcome barriers that prevent you from participating in the activities they enjoy.
Our occupational therapists at Root Therapy & Wellness are highly skilled and experienced professionals who have completed extensive education to become certified. We routinely collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and physical therapists, to provide comprehensive care to patients in Bozeman, MT. We also believe in educating you, your families, and caregivers about using adaptive equipment and techniques to improve your daily living skills and participate in your communities.
Want to learn more? Give us a call at (406) 219-5388 today and speak to an Occupational Therapist!
Conditions that occupational therapy treats
The main goal of occupational therapy at Root Therapy & Wellness in Bozeman, MT is to help you achieve greater independence and improve your overall quality of life. Many conditions we treat can have a lasting effect on physical and mental health, so our occupational therapists use a holistic approach to evaluate and treat your needs. Our goal is to help you easily perform daily activities, such as dressing, cooking, and work-related tasks.
Here are some conditions that we use occupational therapy to treat at Root Therapy & Wellness:
Orthopedic conditions: Occupational therapists can help you recover from an array of orthopedic injuries, such as:
- Arthritis: Inflammation of one or more joints, which tends to cause pain and stiffness and can worsen with age.
- Tendonopathy: Conditions that affect the tendons ranging from degenerative tearing to inflammation of the tissue. Our OTs can help you with tendon injuries, such as rotator cuff pain and tennis elbow. We help you regain strength and mobility and prevent further damage to the tendon.
- Nerve entrapment or injuries: Nerve related injuries respond well to occupational therapy treatments. Like carpal tunnel syndrome for example; a condition that causes numbness and tingling in the hand or arm due to a pinched nerve in the wrist.
Mental health conditions: Many people don’t know that certain psychological conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, can be treated with occupational therapy. Treatment will focus on enhancing social skills and self-esteem and working on coping mechanisms.
Chronic pain: Chronic pain can benefit from the help of an occupational therapist at Root Therapy & Wellness because we teach you techniques to manage pain and improve your function.
Work-related injuries: OT can help you regain your strength after a work-related injury. We also can help you return to work by providing ergonomic education and developing customized treatment plans.
Our team at Root Therapy & Wellness is ready to help! Call (406) 219-5388 today to request an appointment with one of our occupational therapists in Bozeman, MT!
What To Expect With Occupational therapy
Our occupational therapists at Root Therapy & Wellness will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to identify the issues impacting you or a loved one. This exam will include an assessment of your medical history, current symptoms, and other lifestyle factors that could be contributing to your condition.
We will use various treatment strategies to help you achieve a happier, healthier life.
They may include:
Exercises
Occupational therapists may integrate targeted exercises to increase patient strength, flexibility, and mobility.
Adaptive equipment
Our occupational therapist in Bozeman, MT may recommend using adaptive equipment to help you perform tasks more independently. Some other common types of adaptive equipment used by OTs include:
- Dressing aids: Button hooks, long-handled shoe horns, dressing sticks, sock aids, and elastic shoelaces to facilitate independent dressing.
- Eating utensils: Built-up handles, weighted utensils, plate guards, non-slip placemats, and adapted cups to assist with feeding and meal preparation.
- Bathing and toileting aids: Shower chairs, grab bars, raised toilet seats, and long-handled sponges to enhance safety and independence in the bathroom.
- Reachers and grabbers: Extending tools to help individuals pick up items without bending or stretching.
- Writing aids: Pen grips, weighted pens, and writing splints to improve handwriting and fine motor control.
- Fine motor aids: Hand therapy tools, such as therapy putty, hand exercisers, and grip strengtheners, improve hand function and dexterity.
- Visual aids: Magnifiers, talking clocks, and large print materials help individuals with vision impairments.
Custom splints and orthotics
Splints and orthotics are used to support an extremity and allow for proper alignment. These externally applied devices work to restore functions in the affected area. Examples of orthotics include ankle braces, finger splints, and spinal braces.
Activity modifications
Occupational therapists use activity analysis to break down complex activities into simpler components, which helps patients to learn new skills or improve existing ones.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics helps you adjust to your workplace while dealing with your condition and accompanying symptoms. An OT will assess the different products and systems that need to be designed or rearranged to fit the patient using them. Ergonomics aims to improve workspaces and reduce the risk of injury.
Maintain The Skills You Need For Daily Living And Working
Our rehabilitation programs in Bozeman, MT can help you achieve goals to develop, improve, and maintain skills needed for daily living and working. Our patient-centered care plans are designed specifically to help you thrive in recovery and achieve a better quality of life. Want to learn more about the benefits of occupational therapy? Call Root Therapy & Wellness at (406) 219-5388 today to discover how our treatments can benefit you!
FAQs
What is occupational therapy?
At Root Therapy & Wellness, we believe that everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling and independent life, regardless of their age, ability, or condition. That is why we offer top-notch occupational therapy services designed to help you achieve your goals and live the life you deserve.
Our expert occupational therapists work with individuals of all ages who may have physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental challenges that prevent them from participating in the activities that matter most to them. We use a holistic approach that considers your unique physical, emotional, social, and environmental needs and goals and develop a personalized treatment plan that reflects your unique situation and aspirations.
Our Root Therapy & Wellness occupational therapists conduct comprehensive assessments to identify your strengths, limitations, and needs. We use various techniques, exercises, and modalities to improve your physical and cognitive function and develop adaptive strategies and tools to overcome any barriers you may face. In addition, we also work closely with your family members, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that your needs and goals are met and that you receive the best care and support.
At Root Therapy & Wellness, we believe that occupational therapy is not just about addressing current challenges but also preparing you for the future. Our occupational therapists help you develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence you need to maintain your independence and quality of life over the long term.
If you or a loved one want to improve your ability to participate in the activities that matter most to you, contact Root Therapy & Wellness today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert occupational therapists. Let us help you achieve your goals and live the life you deserve!
What is your approach to occupational therapy?
At Root Therapy & Wellness on Bozeman, MT, we take a holistic approach to occupational therapy centered around you and your unique needs and goals. We understand everyone is different, so we tailor our approach to your specific situation and aspirations.
Our occupational therapy services are designed to help you develop or regain the skills, knowledge, and confidence you need to participate in the activities and tasks that are meaningful and necessary to you, including work, self-care, leisure, and social participation. We conduct comprehensive assessments to identify your strengths, limitations, and needs and then develop a personalized treatment plan that reflects your unique situation and goals.
Our approach to occupational therapy is based on evidence-based practices and the latest research in the field. We use various techniques, exercises, and modalities to improve your physical and cognitive function and develop adaptive strategies and tools to overcome any barriers you may face.
In addition, we also work closely with your family members, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that your needs and goals are met and that you receive the best possible care and support.
At Root Therapy & Wellness, we believe that occupational therapy is not just about addressing current challenges but also preparing you for the future. Our occupational therapists help you develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence you need to maintain your independence and quality of life over the long term. We also provide education, training, and support to help you maintain your progress and achieve your goals over time.
Our approach to occupational therapy is client-centered, evidence-based, and tailored to your unique needs and goals. We are committed to helping you achieve your full potential and live a fulfilling and independent life.
How can occupational therapy help me?
At Root Therapy & Wellness, we believe occupational therapy can help individuals of all ages and abilities achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives. We work with patients who may have physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental challenges that prevent them from engaging in the activities and tasks that are meaningful and necessary to them.
Common conditions that our occupational therapists address include:
- Neurological disorders
- Orthopedic injuries
- Headaches/Concussions
- Post-surgical scar related concerns
- Arthritis
- Chronic pain
We also work with individuals who have mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as developmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder.
Our Root Therapy & Wellness occupational therapists use a variety of approaches to help you achieve your goals. We use exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and coordination. Our therapists are cognitive rehabilitation experts, helping improve memory and attention.
Our therapists are also highly experienced at identifying the most effective adaptive equipment, environmental modifications to improve accessibility, and self-care training to improve independence with daily activities.
Our approach to occupational therapy is holistic, which means we consider your physical, emotional, social, and environmental needs and goals. We work closely with your family, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure you receive the best care and support.
Our occupational therapy services are designed to help you develop or regain the skills, knowledge, and confidence you need to participate in the activities that matter most to you, including work, self-care, leisure, and social participation.
We believe that everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling and independent life, regardless of their condition or challenges!
What is the difference between physical therapy and occupational therapy?
Physical therapy and occupational therapy are both essential healthcare professions that focus on improving your physical abilities and independence. While there is some overlap between the two professions, there are also significant differences.
Physical therapy typically focuses on rehabilitating the musculoskeletal system. It is often used to help individuals recover from pain, injuries, or surgeries. Physical therapists work with patients with various conditions, including back pain, joint replacements, sports injuries, and neurological disorders.
Physical therapy approaches include exercises, manual therapies, modalities, patient education, and preventative strategies to address the following:
- Pain and dysfunction from pain
- Improving mobility and functional abilities
- Restoring and enhancing strength, power, and endurance
- Restoring balance, coordination, and agility
Conversely, occupational therapy focuses on helping you participate in your daily activities and achieve your goals. Occupational therapists work with patients with a range of physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges that prevent them from engaging in meaningful and necessary activities including the following:
- Helping you regain or improve activities such as getting dressed, bathing, and household responsibilities.
- Addressing your ability to return to work with modifications and/or adaptations.
- Helping you with physical, psychological, and cognitive processing.
- Supporting and helping you complete the most important roles in your daily lives, in the community, and in performing your jobs.
Some of the most common conditions that occupational therapists treat include headaches/concussions, traumatic brain injury, developmental disorders, upper extremity injuries, and mental health conditions. Occupational therapy approaches include adaptive equipment and environmental modifications, cognitive rehabilitation, and self-care training.
While physical therapy and occupational therapy may seem similar, they have distinct differences in their goals, patients, and approaches.
At Root Therapy & Wellness, our expert occupational therapists work closely with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of your physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
What does occupational therapy treat?
At Root Therapy & Wellness, our expert occupational therapists are trained to treat a wide range of conditions that can affect your ability to participate in your daily activities and achieve your goals. We work with patients of all ages who may have physical, cognitive, emotional, or developmental challenges that prevent them from engaging in activities that are meaningful and necessary to them.
Common conditions that occupational therapists treat include:
- Traumatic brain injury – headaches/concussions
- Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety related to physical pain/trauma
- Arthritis and other joint disorders
- Chronic pain conditions
- Work-related injuries and conditions
- Visceral related restrictions and scar restrictions
Our occupational therapists use a variety of treatment approaches depending on your unique situation and goals. This may include:
- Adaptive equipment and environmental modifications to improve your independence and safety
- Self-care training to help you manage your daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming
- Work conditioning and ergonomics to help you return to work safely and efficiently
- Strengthening and postural work for injury prevention with work and hobby related tasks
- Stress management and relaxation techniques to help you cope with emotional and mental health challenges
- Hand therapy to improve hand and arm function and prevent further injury
Can I go to any occupational therapists I choose?
As a patient, you have the right to choose the occupational therapy clinic that best meets your needs and goals. This is known as the “Patient’s Bill of Rights,” which is a set of guidelines that outlines your rights and responsibilities as a patient.
Choosing a clinic with licensed and experienced occupational therapists who specialize in the type of condition or injury you have is important. You may also want to consider the location, hours of operation, and insurance coverage when choosing a clinic.
At Root Therapy & Wellness, we are committed to upholding the Patient’s Bill of Rights and providing high-quality, patient-centered care that meets your individual needs and goals. We believe in empowering you to participate actively in your care and decision-making process.
Our Root Therapy & Wellness occupational therapists use a holistic approach to care that considers your physical, cognitive, emotional, and environmental needs and goals. We work closely with you and your healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that reflects your unique situation and goals.
Whether recovering from an injury or managing a chronic condition, occupational therapy can help you achieve your goals and take the first step toward improving your quality of life.