What’s The Difference Between Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy?

As an occupational therapist who specializes in pelvic health, I am accustomed to being asked the question, “What's the difference between OT and PT?” The answer varies by practice area, whether it’s in pediatrics, home care, acute care, orthopedics or hand therapy, for example. The reality is that occupational therapists and physical therapists are more similar than they are different, because they both have one primary goal in mind: to improve your quality of life.

‍

Both types of professionals require much schooling. Physical therapists must now go through a minimum three-year graduate program to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). Occupational therapists must go through a two-year Masters with an optional third year to earn their Doctorate. Both tracks include anatomy and physiology, neurology, movement analysis, activity grading, and many other classes. They also involve clinical rotations in various healthcare settings.

‍

OTs focus on what we call ADLs or activities of daily living. These include everything a person does on a daily basis — from toileting, bathing and dressing, all the way to driving, working, participating in social activities — even sexual functioning. This is where the division between the two professions can get a little blurry, because PTs also work toward functional goals, such as walking, transfers, stair climbing and sports participation.  

‍

So where did OT come from? 

Occupational therapy emerged in the early 1900s, when we were tasked with working with people with severe mental health issues, by promoting their engagement in meaningful ADL tasks. During World War I, OT provided services encouraging ADLs to those dealing with both mental and physical dysfunction. But even as OT shifted more toward physical dysfunction, the mental health piece remained foundational to both our education and our therapeutic mindset. Today, occupational therapists are experts in pediatrics, sensory integration, hand therapy, physical disabilities and, to a lesser extent, mental health. We, as a profession, have adapted as the healthcare environment changes, but we remain a valuable part of a holistic approach to recovery.

‍

The physical therapy profession was born from the world of gymnastics in the early 1800s. Physiotherapists in Sweden were originally called "sjuk-gymnast" which means a person involved in gymnastics for those who are ill. The first physical therapist was Per Henrik Ling (the Father of Swedish Gymnastics) who founded the Royal Central Institute of Gymnastics in 1813 for rehabilitation and manipulation. [source: The Rise of Physical Therapy: A History in Footsteps]  

‍

Where does pelvic health fit in?

Pelvic health is an emerging area of the rehabilitation arena. It is considered a specialization and, unfortunately, is not yet taught in-depth in OT or PT school. As a discipline, it was a little up for grabs and PT led the charge (thank you PT!) for bringing more attention to this vital area of practice. But there's room for multiple disciplines to help out and OTs are well-positioned to join in.

‍

Occupational therapists address ADLs in pelvic health too. Problems like incontinence and pelvic floor disorders can have a significant impact on how we live our lives on a daily basis. Imagine, for example, someone with incontinence who avoids going out to lunch with friends because they are afraid of having an accident. This could eventually lead to a lack of social interaction, even isolation, which would negatively affect their mental health. The ADL being affected in this case is social interaction. If the incontinence is treated, the person can return to meaningful activities that enrich their life.

‍

In treatment, both physical and mental health will be addressed using preparatory activities such as manual therapies, therapeutic exercises, functional activities and environmental strategies, all with an eye on improving the patient’s quality of life. Occupational therapists who have undergone extensive mental health training and can provide a safe and supportive environment for open dialogue and treatment of pelvic health disorders, which helps people manage their symptoms and improve their mental health. 

‍

As you can see, occupational therapists and physical therapists are both searching for ways to enhance your overall well-being. While we are so alike, we are often looking at the same problems from a different angle.

‍

When it comes to working with an OT or PT in the area of pelvic health, the difference is less in the educational degree one holds. It really comes down to specific training, and what you are hoping to achieve from the therapy. The most important part is finding a therapeutic personality that matches with your specific goals and needs.

‍

To learn more about ways I can help you as an occupational therapist, contact me at Activcore Princeton.

‍

‍Disclaimer:  The views expressed in this post are based on the opinion of the author, unless otherwise noted, and should not be taken as personal medical advice. The information provided is intended to help readers make their own informed health and wellness decisions.