Occupational Therapy Job for the Shoulder

Occupational therapy for the shoulder enables the patient to regain use of the affected arm. The primary goal of restoring the ability to perform home, work and leisure activities helps to create the occupational therapist's individualized, task-oriented treatment regimen.

History

• According to the Medical University of South Carolina, the profession of occupational therapy is almost one hundred years old. Occupational therapists use their skills to assist to children and adults whose abilities are limited by illness, injury, birth defects such as autism, social deprivation and aging. According to HealthProNet.org, occupational therapists also assist the homeless and people suffering from drug and alcohol addiction.

Benefits

• Shoulder problems related to birth defects, injury or disease affect quality of life and independent functioning. According to the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc., treatment enhances and improves the patient's ability to function in his environment.

Treatment

• In addition to evaluating physical impairments attributed to the shoulder, treatment involves identifying and managing psychological and cognitive problems that may negatively influence the successful outcome of treatment. Upon commencement of treatment, the therapist helps to maximize the patient's abilities to accommodate his individual needs. According to ShoulderDoc.co.uk, by simulating self-care, home management, work and leisure activities, the therapist's goal is to help the patient achieve the optimal level of performance for the affected limb.