Neurological Occupational Therapists (Neuro OTs) work with individuals with a neurological condition or who have sustained life changing injuries resulting in neurological symptoms. Our Neuro OTs take a client-centred approach to considering the full effects of an illness or injury on a person's ability to carry out day to day activities and wider activities and roles that are meaningful to them.
Within our Plymouth Neurophysio team we work closely with our Neuro OT with all aspects of neuro-rehabilitation. Neuro OTs facilitate the recovery of life skills and develop new ways of achieving independance and function. The focus of occupational therapy is determined by the activities and choices that are most important to the individual and their sense of identity. This may include completing activities of daily living and self-care tasks, as well as taking part in leisure and social opportunities. It will also include accessing the community and exploring options for vocational activities and possibly employment or studies as appropriate to an individual's needs.
Our Neuro OTs are specialists at helping an individual with upper limb rehabilitation and regaining movement and function in their upper limb if they are experiencing weakness or hemiplegia. An upper limb programme will include a full assessment of the affected upper limb, followed by a tailored exercise programme, which will often incorporate everyday tasks and activities to make it meaningful for the individual. It can also include appropiate aids, adaptations and possibly splinting and postural support where appropriate. We can also provide advice around therapeutic handling and positioning of the affected upper limb to help manage pain, swelling or changes in muscle tone if this is indicated.
Cognitive difficulties are common following neurological injury which can affect an individual's memory, planning ability and information processing. There can also be changes to mood and behaviour. Cognitive assessment and rehabilitation is carried out by a specialist OT who will be able to suggest methods and techniques for managing cognitive difficulties as well as supporting those who live with or care for an individual with cognitive difficulties. They can also give advice and help to put in place strategies to manage fatigue as this is a very common symptom with a neurological condition.
Our Neuro OTs are fantastically placed to be able to assess and provide advice and information regarding home adaptations and adaptive equipment as well as wheelchair and seating advice.
We are very proud to be able to provide a multi-disciplinary way of working within our Plymouth Neurophysio team.