Occupational therapy or physical therapy?

Question

I have considered both occupational therapy and physical therapy (Master's in OT, or PTA) I know both can be rewarding careers, but I don't know which is right for me. I am going to try to shadow both sometime in the near future. Any advantages or disadvantages to either profession (salary, stress, schedules, etc)? I know getting my Master's in OT would take longer and probably be more demanding (I have my Bachelors in a related field, though) but is it worth it in the long run? I'm not concerned with the prestige of having a masters vs. downgrading to an associates. I just want to be happy with my work.

Answer 1

If you are considering OT, why are you considering PTA instead of PT? At this time, you can still get a PT degree at the MS level (although many are now DPT). The careers are similar in terms of the role they play in evaluating and assessment of movement problems and designing treatment programs. OT will focus more on either specific tasks such as dressing, driving, writing, cooking, etc, but also many are experts in hand and elbow related disorders. PT deals more with generalized mobility...regaining the ability to walk, climb stairs, balance, use the arm for normal function, rehabilitate the back so one can resume a more functional life...but both PT and OT do overlap a little bit. As a PTA, you would do the same things as a PT, but no formal assessment. If you don't want to do any formal assessment, then I would recommend either PTA or COTA, but if you want to be the "detective" then go for either PT or OT. Then it would depend on which area interests you more.

Answer 2

There is considerable overlap in the two professions. As a generalization with many exceptions, physical therapy in children is directed at improving the function of large muscle groups in rehabilitation from strokes, fractures and accidents. Also in children with certain congenital neuromuscular abnormalities. Occupational therapy is generally directed to small muscle groups involved in the performance of certain tasks. Holding a pencil, picking up small objects with the fingers, opening a can, etc. are but a few examples. I can't speak to salaries. PT now requires a PhD.

Answer 3

Well if you ar going to be shadowing both let me give you a way to shadow physical theropy, by going to an military hospital to help soilders out with there theropy because if you can deal with the military personel, along with the stess that comes with it you will be able to handle anything within the two fields of study.

Answer 4

Both are good, but you should base your Masters on what interests you more. OT is requires more stamina and dedication for me, because it deals also with neuropsychiatric concerns. However, as long as you are interested in a career, you will look upon it as a challenge.