Occupational Therapists and Your Arthritis.

If you are diagnosed with the arthritis or some other debilitating condition, causing discomfort and reduced mobility, you may want to consider visiting an occupational therapist, in order to learn how to improve your day-to-day life. An occupational therapist is a trained licensed health professional, who works with people of all ages, helping them to carry out everyday activities and lead fulfilling lives. Some occupational therapists have developed specialist skills in treating people with arthritis, enabling you to live a more fulfilling life. Finding an occupational therapist is something that your local doctor will assist you with.

An occupational therapist is usually based in a hospital, social services department or primary care centre. The hospital-based occupational therapist may see you in the occupational therapist department, on the ward, or in the out-patient clinic. Occasionally they may visit you at home. Social services and primary care occupational therapists usually see you at home. You may be referred to a specialist occupational therapist by your consultant rheumatologist (or by another occupational therapist), when you are first diagnosed, or if you have difficulties getting about or managing everyday activities, some rheumatology departments also offer an open system, where patients can request a visit from an occupational therapist. You can approach social services yourself if you are having difficulty managing at home.

When you first start to deal with arthritic pain, you may find that the most difficult thing that you experience, is not so much the pain – but the loss of your independence. Arthritis can also lead to restrictions in hand dexterity, that make many things frustrating, you may also find yourself confined to a wheel chair at some later date. Occupational therapists can either take care of you at your office or at your home. This will help you learn different techniques for personal grooming, dressing, getting in and out of bed, and even driving. With this outside help you can maintain a certain level of independence that you would not otherwise receive if left to you own devices.

When you see the occupational therapist, they will make an assessment of your condition, including which joints are affected and where there is pain. They will ask about any problems you may be having, so it may help to write them down beforehand and to make a list of questions you want to ask. Think about difficulties with activities such as washing and dressing, preparing meals, getting around your home, turning on taps or using electrical appliances. Be sure also to mention any difficulties you may have in doing your job or your hobbies, or driving your car. Having discovered which activities are important to you and highlighted particular problems, the occupational therapist will explore possible solutions with you. This might involve telling you about specialist equipment or changing the way you do some things to ease pain, frustration and fatigue.

There are other home care help services that can be used to your advantage, to avoid having to live in a nursing home, or move in with relatives. Some communities have meals on wheels to help if you have difficulty preparing your own meals. These services are in place to help senior citizens, or chronic pain sufferers, to remain independent and have more control in their lives. There are also services that send nurses to your home to help you with day-to-day things and check your vital signs, administer your medicine, and similar things that may just be beyond you. When you are dealing with arthritis, some of these things may not be possible on your own without the help of services such as these. Arthritis does not have to be the end of your happiness. If your condition is severe, occupational help and other home care professionals can help you to enjoy a happy and normal life.

I hope this article give you some occupational therapist will view your arthritis.