Occupational Therapy in Ventura and Ojai
Helping People Get Back to Their Daily Life
Everyone has their own individual routine, at home, and at work. The purpose of occupational therapy is to help people get back to their daily life as independently as possible. In some cases that may involve reacquiring a skill you’ve had for decades, like learning to walk again after a stroke. Or you may need to learn new ways to accomplish everyday tasks, like buttoning your shirt.
Occupational Therapy vs. Physical Therapy
Often confused with Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy has a different objective. While the two specialties overlap and sometimes call for the same treatments and exercises, physical therapy is more about body mechanics: It focuses on helping people move efficiently, smoothly, and comfortably. Occupational therapy takes a broader perspective, addressing how people perform day-to-day activities at home and at work.
Improving Activities of Daily Living
Occupational therapy can help you regain the skills needed to complete activities of daily living safely and independently. Depending on your needs and goals, this may include everyday tasks such as dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, preparing meals, completing household tasks, or managing responsibilities at work or school.
Your occupational therapist can help you practice these skills, adapt the way you perform certain activities, and find strategies that make daily routines easier and safer. Whether you are recovering from an injury or surgery or adjusting to changes caused by a medical condition, occupational therapy focuses on helping you participate more fully in the activities that are important to you.
Inpatient and Outpatient Occupational Therapy
Outpatient Occupational Therapy is available at Community Memorial Hospital – Ventura, and Community Memorial Hospital – Ojai. It is also available to patients who are currently admitted at one of our hospitals or who are residents at our Continuing Care Center. We provide services for patients of all ages who need assistance with basic functions — from pediatric to geriatric.
Occupational Therapy Services
Our licensed Occupational Therapists are specially trained in the examination and treatment of problems that affect how we move and function. Our therapists excel at hands-on therapy and are committed to staying current with new developments in their field. Using advanced therapy equipment, they provide a full range of care for muscle and soft tissue injuries, bone and joint injuries, post-surgical therapy, and more.
Conditions Treated with Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy can help patients manage a variety of injuries, conditions, and functional challenges that affect their ability to perform everyday activities. Our occupational therapists develop individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s needs, abilities, and recovery goals.
Some of the more common injuries and diagnosis include:
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Serious injuries
- Joint replacements
- Acute sprains/strains
- Osteoarthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Post-surgery diagnoses
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Hip fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Chronic pain
- Athletic and sports injuries
- Neurological impairments/injuries
- Shoulder, arm, wrist, or hand problems
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Workplace injuries
What to Expect from Occupational Therapy
Your occupational therapy experience will be tailored to your individual needs and recovery goals. From obtaining a physician referral to developing your treatment plan, our team will work with you throughout the rehabilitation process.
Physician’s Referral
If you are currently a hospital patient, one of our licensed occupational therapists will visit you in your room once your physician referral has been received.
For outpatient therapy, once you have a prescription from your doctor, you will need to call 805-948-5063 to schedule an evaluation. Our friendly front desk staff will let you know what you will need to bring. Depending on the level of care required, every effort will be made to schedule your appointment as soon as possible.
Therapy Goals & Progress
Your therapist will work with you to develop and achieve goals for your unique recovery journey. Occupational therapy patient goals are formulated based on interactions with patients, family members, caregivers, physicians, and members of your nursing team.
Throughout your rehabilitation process, your therapist will keep your physician updated on your condition and how you are progressing toward your goals. It’s important to let your therapist know when your follow-up appointments are scheduled, he or she can prepare accordingly.
Get Started with Occupational Therapy
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, surgery, or illness or need support managing an ongoing condition, occupational therapy can help you build the skills and confidence to participate more fully in everyday life. Community Memorial’s occupational therapists provide personalized care focused on your individual needs, abilities, and goals.
With occupational therapy services available in Ventura and Ojai, our team is here to help you take the next step toward greater independence.
Ready to get started? Call 805-948-5063 to schedule an outpatient occupational therapy evaluation. A physician’s referral is required.
