Occupational therapy

Occupational therapy focuses on restoring functional capabilities. Through services determined by the individual needs of each patient, occupational therapists advance the patient toward independence with activities that focus on daily living.

Specific goals of occupational therapy can include:

• Restoring optimal level of function
• Improve one’s ability to perform daily activities
• Improving range of motion and fine motor skills
• Regaining strength and flexibility
• Perceptual motor re-training
• Cognitive re-training
• Recommendation for adaptive equipment
• Guidance to family members and caregivers

Conditions treated and services offered by the team of occupational therapists include:

Coordination across specialties

The occupational therapists collaborate closely with experts within and outside of the Rehabilitation Network, depending on the condition of the patients and their individual needs. This may include working with a multidisciplinary team of physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, neuropsychologists and physiatrists. Treatment may vary depending on the individual’s condition and the rehabilitation setting (inpatient or outpatient).

Occupational therapists may work with experts from other Northwell Health specialties including neuroscience, orthopedics, oncology, vascular surgery and pediatrics, to collaborate on providing care.

The occupational therapists at Northwell Health Rehabilitation Network are certified in treatments and services to benefit patient care. Certifications include:

• Certified hand therapist
• Bioness Electrical Stimulation for Upper Extremity (H200)
• Functional Electrical Stimulation bike
• Hocoma ArmeoSpring – Functional arm and hand therapy
• Kinesio Taping
• CarFit Driving Modifications Specialist
• Certified lymphedema therapist
• Certified wound care specialist 

The Rehabilitation Network offers support groups and classes for patients with various conditions, including some of those treated by occupational therapists.

Learn more about support groups for brain injury and stroke and classes for multiple sclerosis, cancer and aquatics rehabilitation.