Occupational Therapy
Helping People Get Back to Their Daily Life
Everyone has their own individual routine, at home, and at work. The purpose of occupational therapy is to help people get back to their daily life as independently as possible. In some cases that may involve reacquiring a skill you’ve had for decades, like learning to walk again after a stroke. Or you may need to learn new ways to accomplish everyday tasks, like buttoning your shirt.
Often confused with Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy has a different objective. While the two specialties overlap and sometimes call for the same treatments and exercises, physical therapy is more about body mechanics: It focuses on helping people move efficiently, smoothly, and comfortably. Occupational therapy takes a broader perspective, addressing how people perform day-to-day activities at home and at work.
Outpatient Occupational Therapy is available at Community Memorial Hospital – Ventura, and Community Memorial Hospital – Ojai. It is also available to patients who are currently admitted at one of our hospitals or who are residents at our Continuing Care Center. We provide services for patients of all ages who need assistance with basic functions — from pediatric to geriatric.
Occupational Therapy Services
Our licensed Occupational Therapists are specially trained in the examination and treatment of problems that affect how we move and function. Our therapists excel at hands-on therapy and are committed to staying current with new developments in their field. Using advanced therapy equipment, they provide a full range of care for muscle and soft tissue injuries, bone and joint injuries, post-surgical therapy and more.
Some of the more common injuries and diagnosis include:
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Serious injuries
- Joint replacements
- Acute sprains/strains
- Osteoarthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Post-surgery diagnoses
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Hip fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Chronic pain
- Athletic and sports injuries
- Neurological impairments/injuries
- Shoulder, arm, wrist, or hand problems
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Workplace injuries
Physician’s Referral
If you are currently a hospital patient, one of our licensed occupational therapists will visit you in your room once your physician referral has been received.
For outpatient therapy, once you have a prescription from your doctor, you will need to call 805-948-5063 to schedule an evaluation. Our friendly front desk staff will let you know what you will need to bring. Depending on the level of care required, every effort will be made to schedule your appointment as soon as possible.
Therapy Goals & Progress
Your therapist will work with you to develop and achieve goals for your unique recovery journey. Occupational therapy patient goals are formulated based on interactions with patients, family members, caregivers, physicians, and members of your nursing team.
Throughout your rehabilitation process, your therapist will keep your physician updated on your condition and how you are progressing toward your goals. It’s important to let your therapist know when your follow-up appointments are scheduled, he or she can prepare accordingly.
