Occupational therapy

General objectives: Recovery and maintenance of functional independence, promotion of participation, and use of residual abilities in daily, work, and social activities. Main areas of intervention: Stroke and GCA: Functional recovery of the upper limb, rehabilitation in functional quality of life, prevention of maladaptive compensation. Use of evidence-based techniques (task-oriented, CIMT, mirror therapy, virtual reality). Multiple Sclerosis: Maintaining residual abilities, managing fatigue and pain. Energy conservation strategies, pacing, and environmental adaptation. Movement Disorders (Parkinsonism, Dystonia): Facilitation of fluidity and safety of movement, visual and auditory cueing strategies, use of adapted tools, and compensatory techniques. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): Maintaining quality of life, positioning, prevention of contractures, use of communication aids, and caregiver support. Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Polyneuropathies: In the acute phase: joint protection and positioning. In the chronic phase: recovery of strength, dexterity, and functional independence. Vertebrospinal Cord Injuries: Training in the use of wheelchairs and assistive devices, independent AVQ, prevention of pressure ulcers, and postural management. Recovery and strengthening of the functional hand through specific grip training, the use of dynamic orthoses, and fine motor skills re-education.

Crepeau, E. B., Cohn, E. S., & Schell, B. A. (Eds.) Willard & Spackman’s Occupational Therapy (14ª ed.). Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer. Polatajko, H., Townsend, E., & Craik, J. Enabling Occupation II: Advancing an Occupational Therapy Vision for Health, Well-Being, & Justice through Occupation. Ottawa: CAOT, 2007.