April is Occupational Therapy Month, a time to highlight how occupational therapy supports the activities people rely on every day.
First recognized in 1980 alongside the AOTA Conference & Expo, this month shines a spotlight on the meaningful work of occupational therapists (OTs) and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs). It celebrates the people who help others live more independent, fulfilling lives.
From helping children with disabilities build everyday skills to supporting individuals with memory, focus, and problem-solving, OTs and OTAs make a real difference in how people move through their daily routines.
Many daily tasks depend on small, precise movements. Things like holding a phone, cooking a meal, or getting dressed all require coordination and strength. When something affects the hand, wrist, or elbow, these simple tasks can become more difficult.
Occupational therapy focuses on helping people stay engaged in these routines—so they can continue doing what matters most to them.
What is an Occupational Therapist
An occupational therapist (OT) helps people do everyday activities after an injury, surgery, or condition.
They focus on things like:
- Using your hands and arms
- Getting dressed or cooking
- Returning to work or daily routines
In orthopedics, they often work with hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder conditions and may use exercises or splints to support movement.
Why Daily Activities Matter
It is common to focus on pain or injury. However, what often matters most is how that issue affects daily life.
A hand or wrist condition does not just affect one area. It can change how you move throughout the day. Tasks at home, work, or even hobbies may feel different.
This is why occupational therapy looks at the full picture. It connects movement to real-life activities, not just symptoms. This approach reflects the goal of Occupational Therapy Month, supporting meaningful engagement in daily life.
Occupational Therapy at AOSMI
At AOSMI’s Freehold location, occupational therapy is part of a collaborative orthopedic setting. Care may be coordinated with other providers when appropriate.
This type of approach can be helpful for people managing injuries, post-surgical needs, or ongoing conditions. Each plan is based on the individual and how their condition affects daily routines.
A Closer Look at Hand Therapy
Hand therapy is a more focused area within occupational therapy. It requires advanced training and experience.
Leah Rubino, MS, OTR, CHT, CLT-LANA, is a Certified Hand Therapist with over 20 years of experience. She works with patients who have conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and elbow.
These areas are complex. Even small changes in movement can affect daily function. Because of this, care is often detailed and specific to the patient.
How Hand Therapy Works Alongside Orthopedic Care
Hand therapists often work closely with orthopedic providers as part of a coordinated care approach. When appropriate, communication between the therapist and physician can help guide treatment decisions, especially for patients recovering from injury or surgery.
At AOSMI, this collaboration may include working alongside physicians such as Dr. Edward J. Armbruster, board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in hand and microvascular surgery. His focus on hand and upper extremity conditions can complement the work of hand therapy, helping align treatment plans with each patient’s needs and progress.
This type of coordination can support more consistent progress over time, with adjustments made based on how the hand, wrist, or elbow is responding throughout care.
Custom Splinting and Support
Custom splinting is one part of care that can support hand and wrist conditions. A splint is designed to protect or support a joint.
At AOSMI, splints are made on-site and adjusted over time. They are designed to fit the patient and their daily needs, rather than using a standard option.
When Daily Tasks Start to Feel Different
Changes in function do not always happen all at once. They may start with small challenges that build over time.
You may begin to notice:
- Difficulty gripping or holding objects
- Stiffness that limits movement
- Trouble with routine tasks like writing or lifting
- Discomfort during daily activities
An evaluation can help identify what may be contributing to these changes and what care options may be appropriate.
What Occupational Therapy May Focus On
Each plan is different, but care often centers around a few key areas:
- Supporting safe movement during daily tasks
- Addressing limits in strength or coordination
- Improving how the hand and wrist function together
- Helping patients adapt to changes in movement
The goal is to support participation in everyday activities in a safe and manageable way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does occupational therapy focus on?
It focuses on helping people take part in daily activities like dressing, cooking, and working.
Is hand therapy different from occupational therapy?
Yes. It is a specialized area that focuses on the hand, wrist, and elbow.
What conditions can be addressed?
This may include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendon injuries, arthritis, and nerve-related symptoms.
Do all patients need splints?
No. Splints are used when appropriate based on the condition and care plan.
What is the Difference between Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy
An occupational therapist (OT) focuses on helping people with everyday tasks like using their hands, getting dressed, or returning to daily routines. A physical therapist (PT) focuses on movement, strength, balance, and improving how the body moves overall.
Learn More About Your Options
If daily tasks are starting to feel more difficult, it may be helpful to explore what could be contributing to those changes.
Occupational therapy and hand therapy can play a role in supporting movement and function. Understanding your options is often the first step.
To learn more about occupational therapy services in Freehold, NJ, you can call 732-720-2566 or Request an Appointment for more information.