Pain Rehabilitation Center in Minnesota

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy focuses on what "occupies" time during the day. In the PRC program, occupational therapists help patients create a balance between work, self-care, and leisure activities. For many patients, pain controls the activities they do during the day. Many have given up what they once enjoyed or changed daily routines due to the pain. Occupational therapy focuses on learning techniques that increase a person's control over daily activities, as well as helping to increase independence when performing activities.

Occupational therapy includes discussion of topics such as balancing daily activities, moderation (rather than overdoing or underdoing activity), duration and pacing in completion of tasks, time management, activity modification, body mechanics and computer ergonomics concepts. Hands-on application of body mechanics, moderation, activity modification and time management is provided through activities addressing home management tasks, child care activities, driving, shopping, yard work, garage activities, leisure activities and vocational involvement.

At times, having specific recommendations helps to create a plan that will promote a successful return to work outside of the home. Occupational therapy staff can assist with return-to-work issues on an as-needed, individual basis. Occupational therapists encourage patients to incorporate program concepts into daily activities following the three-week program.