Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physiotherapy (PT) are two distinct but complementary healthcare professions that often work together in rehabilitation. While they may seem similar at first glance, they serve different purposes in your recovery journey.

Occupational Therapy focuses on helping you regain independence in your daily activities. This includes everything from basic self-care tasks like dressing and bathing to more complex activities like cooking or returning to work. OTs also address cognitive skills, train you to use special equipment, and provide recommendations to adapt your environment to make daily tasks easier.

Physiotherapy concentrates on improving your physical movement and function. Physiotherapists work on strengthening muscles, enhancing mobility, improving balance, and managing musculoskeletal pain. They specialise in treating injuries and teaching exercises to improve your physical abilities.

A helpful way to understand the difference is through this example: A physiotherapist might help you regain the strength and balance needed to walk to the bathroom, while an occupational therapist would help you manage all the tasks needed to use the bathroom independently, from handling buttons on clothing to maintaining balance while showering.

Often, you might need both therapies for the best recovery! 💪 They work together to help you get back to your daily life.