How to Tell When It’s Time to See an Occupational Therapist (Not Just a PT)
If you’ve ever been told to “go to therapy” after an injury or diagnosis, you might wonder — should I see a physical therapist (PT) or an occupational therapist (OT)?
While both help people regain movement and independence, their goals — and how they help you get there — are slightly different. Knowing when to see an OT can make all the difference in how fully and confidently you return to your daily life.
At Orca Therapy, we specialize in functional, evidence-based care for neurological and orthopedic conditions — including concussion, stroke, arthritis, and Parkinson’s. Our goal isn’t just to get you moving, but to get you living fully again.
What’s the Difference Between OT and PT?
It helps to think of PT and OT as two sides of the same coin:
Physical therapy (PT) focuses on restoring strength, balance, and general movement — like walking, lifting, or regaining range of motion after surgery or injury.
Occupational therapy (OT) focuses on how you use that movement in daily life — cooking, dressing, typing, driving, or returning to work.
In short:
👉 PT helps you move.
👉 OT helps you do things with that movement.
When to See an Occupational Therapist
You might benefit from seeing an OT if you’re noticing any of these challenges:
1. You can move, but daily tasks are still hard.
If you’ve finished PT but still struggle with handwriting, buttoning clothes, or lifting dishes, OT helps bridge that gap between movement and function.
2. You’re living with neurological changes.
After a concussion, stroke, or Parkinson’s diagnosis, an OT can help retrain coordination, balance, attention, and hand use through neuro-based rehabilitation — rebuilding how your brain and body work together.
3. Pain or fatigue limit your independence.
OTs teach energy conservation, joint protection, and body mechanics strategies so you can complete daily tasks without worsening pain or exhaustion — especially for conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or chronic pain.
4. You need adaptive tools or custom bracing.
If hand weakness, tremor, or joint instability make tasks difficult, OT can recommend and fit custom splints, braces, or adaptive equipment to improve comfort and function.
5. You’re struggling with work or home routines.
Occupational therapy isn’t just about movement — it’s about participation. OTs help redesign your environment, habits, or routines to make meaningful activities more accessible and sustainable.
Why Seeing an OT Early Matters
Many people wait until they’ve “tried everything else” before seeing an occupational therapist — but early intervention can mean faster, more complete recovery.
Research shows that task-specific, function-based therapy improves long-term outcomes for both neurological and orthopedic conditions (AOTA Evidence Exchange, 2023). By addressing real-world movement early on, you train your brain and body to recover in ways that actually translate to your daily life.
How Orca Therapy Helps
At Orca Therapy, our treatment approach combines neuroscience, movement science, and practical problem-solving. We help clients:
Rebuild function after concussion, stroke, or brain injury
Manage arthritis, hand pain, or chronic stiffness
Improve fine motor coordination and grip strength
Use adaptive tools or bracing for safer, easier movement
Return to work, hobbies, and independence with confidence
We collaborate closely with your physician, physical therapist, or other providers to create a seamless plan of care — focused on what matters most to you.
Ready to Find Out if OT Is Right for You?
If you’re wondering whether occupational therapy could help you move — and live — better, Orca Therapy is here to guide you.
We’ll assess your movement, goals, and daily challenges to create a plan that’s practical, personalized, and empowering.
