OT vs PT
Occupational therapy and physical therapy seem to be the same thing, and people often get confused with their meanings. However, there are some very important factors that make a big difference between the two professions.
Definition:
· OT, or Occupational Therapy, is focused on giving a patient a proper understanding of their abilities, and the way they can manage their health in a better manner. This is a very common therapy for those suffering from a physical injury that is not allowing them to work independently, or normally.
· PT, or Physical Therapy, is focused on giving the patient the actual treatment for the injuries they may have, whether they are impairing their normal life or not. This is more related to the cure of the patient’s injuries.
Technical differences:
· OT will be versed in the deeper aspects of human skills that involve his or her ability to cope with the present situation, and how they can achieve a balance in between. They will also study the home and emotional environment, and give their support in these fields.
· PT will focus on the injury, and on trying to prevent further injuries. The therapist is required to have a vast knowledge of the anatomy and musculoskeletal system of the body to be able to do his job properly.
Working Environment:
· An Occupational Therapist works with rehabilitation centers, with individuals who have permanent disabilities, and those who need counseling on a regular basis. They normally work with very sophisticated equipment, and can assist with giving the patient the necessary manpower to make sure they are being taken care of properly.
· Physical Therapists work with hospitals and clinics that receive patients with injuries due to accidents, and the most common of these are related to the neck and spinal cord. They are working on helping to speed up the treatment process, to give the patient fast relief.
Even though OT and PT require similar training, the key difference is that OT needs more training in oral and hand skill interventions, while PT needs more postural and gross motor development training. In order to start practicing either of them, the therapist should have received a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in their respective fields.
Additionally, it is often seen that OT also helps a patient overcome his injuries in some way or another, and that PT is trying to help a patient understand the reasons behind the injury, and how to deal with them through means of education. There are cases where both OT and PT work together to help a patient with severe trauma conditions.
Summary:
1. OT is designed as a tool to help those that need counseling on how to look after themselves.
2. PT is designed as a tool to help the injuries heal faster.
3. OT is practiced in rehabilitation centers, and PT is done in hospitals and clinics.
4. Although both are different, they can complement each other at times.