Resuming Everyday Activities After a Shoulder Injury: How Occupational Therapy Can Help  

May20th 2019

A shoulder injury can impact almost every activity in everyday life. The first thing an occupational therapist will do after the patient is sent to them is to evaluate the health of the shoulder and identify what potential, everyday activities are involved with the patient’s condition. Once the therapist understands what type of demands will be made on the joint, they can develop a program that will strengthen the joint, increase mobility and hopefully prevent shoulder pain with those everyday activities, allowing for more independence. Contact Professional Care Physical Therapy today to learn more about our occupational therapy services. 

The First Steps

During OT, the therapist will begin by helping to manage the associated pain and swelling and assist the patient in regaining as much range of motion as possible. As range of motion increases, the therapist will begin to increase the level of activity, while at the same time gradually adding light amounts of weight. Gently moving the joint will help to reduce inflammation, keeping the joint flexible and functioning smoothly. Occupational therapy is a gradual process that allows the person to slowly regain their strength as the joint is allowed to heal naturally.

Continuing the Healing Process

As the shoulder continues to heal, the occupational therapist will provide the patient with exercises that can be performed at home, allowing them to continue to work the injured area on a daily basis. The therapist will instruct the patient on the proper way to perform the exercises, reducing the risk of re-injuring the shoulder. While mild pain may be present as the shoulder is exercised, moderate or severe pain should be immediately reported to the occupational therapist or physician.

Contact our occupational therapy team today at Professional Care to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Sources:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/515087-occupational-therapy-shoulder-rotator-cuff-exercises/

http://www.aota.org/About-Occupational-Therapy/Patients-Clients/Client-Stories/Alan-Taber.aspx

http://www.healthreachrehab.com/MyCondition/Shoulder.aspx

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