Physical & Rehabilitative Care
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy helps people take part in everyday activities with skills, adaptations, and equipment.
Overview
Occupational therapists focus on meaningful daily tasks, such as dressing, cooking, working, or managing routines. Care may address physical, thinking, or sensory barriers.
What to expect
- Discuss activities that matter to you.
- Practice daily tasks and assess barriers.
- Try adaptive tools or environmental changes.
- Plan strategies for home, school, or work.
Why people explore it
- People often explore it for greater independence with self-care.
- People often explore it for returning to work or school tasks.
- People often explore it for adapting to disability or illness.
These are common reasons people look into it — not a sign that it's right for you.
What the evidence says
Well-supported for specific uses
Strong research or clinical guidelines support it for particular problems — not for everything.
Better supported
- Task-focused rehabilitation and adaptations can support daily function for specific needs.
Promising, but limited or uncertain
- Sensory-based approaches and specific techniques have varying evidence depending on the population.
Not supported by evidence
- OT does not promise to reverse every underlying condition.
Possible risks and precautions
- Get medical clearance and modified activity for cardiac or neurological conditions, recent concussion, or balance problems.
- Exercise may cause soreness or fatigue; tell the clinician about worsening pain, dizziness, or new weakness.
- Falls or reinjury are possible; use the agreed supports and follow any surgery or weight-bearing limits.
If you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicines, ask your healthcare provider first.
Who provides it
- Licensed occupational therapists evaluate and plan care.
- Occupational therapy assistants work under OT supervision; requirements vary by state.
Questions to ask before booking
- Which daily tasks can we work toward together?
- Can you assess equipment or home accessibility needs?
- How will you adapt the session to my health history and comfort?
- What would mean I should stop or seek medical care?
Costs and coverage
- Ask for the full fee, evaluation charges, and any equipment or follow-up costs.
- Coverage depends on the service, provider, medical need, and plan rules; check with your plan about referrals, networks, and visit limits.
Coverage changes often and differs by plan. Always confirm with your insurer and the provider.
Find this service
Search our free Find Help directory under “Chiropractic & rehabilitation”. Listings are information only — appearing there is not an endorsement.
Watch & learn
Related educational videos from trusted creators:
15 Minute Gentle Full Body Stretch
Source: Jessica Valant
A gentle full-body routine with seated and floor-based stretching.
Skip floor movements if getting down or back up is not comfortable for you.
Watch on YouTubeThink it through
What would I like to know about occupational therapy before deciding whether it's right for me?
Your journal is private to you.
Sources
Content reviewed . Written for general education and not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician.
Educational only — not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Supportive wellness practices do not replace necessary medical or mental-health care. Options are not equally effective, and not every option is right for every person. Please talk with a qualified healthcare professional about your own situation. In an emergency, call your local emergency number; in the US, call or text 988 for crisis support. Emergency help