Occupational therapy (OT) is an evidence-based, science-driven profession that applies the most up-to-date research to help people adapt and function as independently as possible.

In its simplest terms, occupational therapists help people across the lifespan participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities also known as occupations.

Occupational Therapy at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital:

It is common for a doctor to refer to occupational therapy both before and/or after a surgery. The occupational therapist (OT) will complete a comprehensive evaluation and establish treatment goals in conjunction with the client.

A treatment plan will be put in place to achieve your goals and your OT will continually problem solve with you to help meet your goals. Patients must get a referral for OT services from their primary care provider or the specialist currently caring for them.

Services provided typically include (but are not limited to):

  • Customized treatment programs to improve one’s ability to perform daily activities
  • Adaptive equipment recommendations and usage training
  • Guidance to family members and caregivers
  • Hand therapy
  • Custom fabrication of orthoses also known as splints
  • Ergonomics education
  • Joint and soft tissue mobilizations to the upper extremity
  • Manual therapy techniques
  • The use of therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation
  • Range of motion and strengthening
  • Fine motor coordination training
  • Desensitization techniques

Examples of common conditions that are treated include but are not limited to:

  • Hand injuries
  • Dupuytren’s disease
  • De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
  • Sprains and strains of the upper extremity
  • Upper extremity fractures
  • Nerve compressions and injuries of the upper extremity
  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Arthritis
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Stroke
  • Cubital tunnel syndrome