The main goal of an occupational therapist is to help patients strive for maximum functional capacity in meaningful occupations. To achieve this goal, we incorporate techniques to improve functional mobility and ADL’s/IADL’s such as sexual activity, toileting, childcare, home management tasks, and more. Education on proper body mechanics and positioning is key to obtaining quality movement to execute occupational tasks.
For example: A dancer, gymnast, or even former military personnel who leaks or has pain getting in and out of a chair or bed will be analyzed participating in the functional activity. Based on the findings the OT may then educate the patient on the most effective use of their core; lower extremity, trunk muscles and pelvic positioning to best execute a proper squat. Combining awareness, training, coordination, and cueing over time will help inhibit leakage and promote successful completion of the functional task.