Difference Between Occupational and Physical Therapy

Sometimes the lines between occupational therapy and physical therapy get blurred, and it can be confusing understand their differences and how each are used to rehabilitate patients.  An occupational therapists (OT) and a physical therapist (PT) both assist patients in regaining the ability to perform everyday functions. However, while OTs and PTs may work together in many settings, these healthcare professionals practice two distinct kinds of therapy.

Occupational therapy gets patients back to everyday tasks

Occupational therapy focuses on restoring the ability to carry out essential tasks at home or in the workplace.  OTs work with people who have mental, physical, developmental or emotional conditions, and use various treatments to develop, recover or maintain the daily living and work skills of their patients. From teaching their patients how to use a computer to caring for daily needs, OTs  lead and recommend physical exercises that can increase strength and dexterity, as well as mental exercises to help patients improve memory, coordination and problem solving skills.

For those with permanent disabilities, OTs are invaluable in demonstrating the use of equipment such as wheelchairs, eating and dressing aids. They also can design and build special equipment that will help improve their patients' lives at home and at work.

Physical therapy assists patients with movement

Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, focuses on regaining movement or improving physical movement.

PTs diagnose and treat patients who have medical problems or a health-related condition that limit their ability to move resulting from an illness, medical condition, injury, burns, arthritis, stroke or other debilitating limitations.

PTs may also work with individuals to prevent or minimize the loss of mobility before it occurs, for example, in preparation for surgery or in athletic training.

Both PTs and OTs require special certification and a post-bachelors degree. In 2009, there were 212 physical therapy education programs and 150 degree programs for occupational therapists. These occupations are becoming increasingly popular, especially as the Baby Boomer generation starts to age. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of OTs in the work force is expected to increase by 26 percent between 2008 and 2018, and the number of PTs is expected to increase by 30 percent. 

Wages for PTs and OTs are competitive. The median wage of a PT in 2008 was $72,790 and for an OT was $66,780.

While the two occupations have their distinct characteristics, they both help patients live their daily lives more independently.