Improving Quality of Life Through Occupational Therapy at The NeuroMedical Center

It can be difficult for individuals without impairments to understand the challenges, frustration, and, at times, embarrassment of being unable to do basic things such as eating or getting dressed on their own. But for those living with debilitating neurologic illnesses or who have suffered a brain injury, being able to prepare a meal or take a bath without assistance can be a meaningful step. Occupational therapy can increase patients’ participation in and enjoyment of life by helping them develop the skills to be more productive and self-sufficient. As a regional leader in advanced neurological care, The NeuroMedical Center in Baton Rouge provides comprehensive outpatient and inpatient therapy and rehabilitation services. The NeuroMedical Center’s licensed occupational therapists work in collaboration with an interdisciplinary network of neurological specialists to deliver customized and holistic treatment for patients.

Understanding Occupational Therapy and How It Can Help

Occupational therapy seeks to help individuals overcome physical and cognitive impairments so that they can lead full lives. These barriers could be caused a range of diseases, injuries or disabilities that hinder a person’s ability to do occupations of everyday life. Occupational therapy can benefit patients with neurologic conditions such as Parkinson’s or Multiple Sclerosis who experience progressive loss of motor control and coordination. It can also help patients regain functioning after a stroke or spinal cord injury. Occupational therapy is also often helpful in assisting new amputees and patients with paralysis learn how to adjust to and function with prosthetic devices and wheelchairs.

Occupational therapists work with patients to determine their personal goals. Using customized therapeutic exercises and programs, therapists help patients reach their optimal level of functioning to be able to perform necessary tasks and participate in activities that they enjoy. Individuals’ goals may vary greatly from person to person. For adults with a neurologic condition or who are recovering from stroke, this may mean being able to complete important daily activities, such as cleaning or cooking on their own so that they can live independently. For children with developmental disabilities, this could mean acquiring the skills to join in school activities and interact with their peers in social settings.

Individual assessment of the patient’s motor skills and physical and mental functioning is the first step when beginning occupational therapy. The occupational therapist will discuss personal goals with the patient and sometimes their family members as well. Together this collaborative evaluation helps determine the best therapy plan for that individual patient. Depending on the patient’s needs, their treatment may include physical and speech therapies in addition to occupational therapy. The individual’s home, work and school environment is also assessed and adaptive techniques and equipment can be used to help them function more effectively.

Occupational Therapy at The NeuroMedical Center Can Help You Live Your Best Life

At The NeuroMedical Center in Baton Rouge, patients receive a tailored occupational therapy plan that is focused on achieving their individual goals. They apply therapeutic approaches that increase mobility, confidence and independence. For patients with complex conditions and multiple functional challenges, the occupational therapy team works hand-in-hand with physical, speech and hand therapists as well as the physicians to make sure patients receive quality and coordinated care. The NeuroMedical Center’s occupational therapists are among the top experts in their field and have completed specialized training in neurodevelopmental treatment. Having earned some of the highest certifications in their specialty, our occupational therapists are trained in the latest techniques and committed to enhancing patients’ quality of life. To schedule a consultation with an occupational therapist at The NeuroMedical Center’s Outpatient Therapy Center in Baton Rouge, contact us at 225-769-2200.