Myrtle Said:

What are the pros and cons of being a physical therapist vs. an occupational therapist ?

We Answered:

I would agree with the pros and cons listed by Mistify. These are the pros and cons of both professions, and it is true that they are rather similar. However, I believe that you are right that there are many more options for specialization with occupational therapy.

Physical therapists work a lot with large muscle groups. They are the ones who teach people how to walk again after an injury or illness. Much of what they do is directly related to the "physical" in terms of helping people to increase strength, range of motion, endurance, etc. Some people associate physical therapy more with athletic injuries. This is true because most athletic injuries happen to the hips, knees, ankles, and shoulders. Aside from the shoulder, all of these areas are primarily covered by physical therapy. (OT also will do shoulders) Because of this, some pro sports teams will have a physical therapist on their staff...they will not have an occupational therapist.

Occupational therapists deal with the physical, social, and emotional aspects of illness, injury, and disability. If they cannot help a person fully recover from an injury, they will help the person adapt their life so they can be as independent as possible. Occupational therapists can work in NICU's, birth to three programs, school districts, hospitals, rehab centers, mental health settings, work settings, and nursing homes. They can be home/work modification consultants, work in community wellness programs, and complete driving evaluations for senior citizens and people with disabilities. OT specialties include hand therapy, lymphedema treatment, and even incontinence care. The possibilities are really endless, so there are really a number of avenues you can go down.

Now, please know that I have a bias. I am an occupational therapist. I chose to go into this profession because of the philosophy of helping people to help themselves. I believe that when a person experiences an illness or disability, it is the little things (like going to the bathroom yourself, taking a shower independently, getting dressed) that you miss the most. As an occupational therapist, I get to help people re-claim control of their lives. I get to give them the gift of dignity and independence. To me, there is no other profession I would rather pursue.

Stephen Said:

Physical therapy vs Occupational therapy?

We Answered:

short answer, physical therapy involves more psychology and motivation, also more sports oriented.

Linda Said:

Physical therapy vs Occupational therapy?

We Answered:

Physiotherapy (physical therapy) is mainly working with gross motor skills such as walking, running, so it is the more sporty one of the two disciplines.

Occupational Therapy (OT) is more with the hands and regaining or improving skills that are required for Activities of Daily Living (ADL) - showering, cooking, eating and work related activities.

OT requires more creativity, and you could also have your own practice and not just work in a hospital. A physiotherapist can work in a variety of settings for example as a personal trainer. You would charge more than a community college trained 'personal trainer' as you have more knowledge about medical conditions and injuries.

Both careers would be rewarding. I personally would find OT very rewarding when working with Traumatic Brain Injury patients.

Which is easier to get work ? - I think they would be about the same.