Stretching Contraindications for Occupational Therapy

Woman stretching right knee

Contraindications for stretching include recent fractures that are still healing, acute inflammation, active infections, tissue trauma such as hematomas, pain with joint movement, the presence of a bony block limiting joint motion, joint hypermobility, stretching leading to joint instability, or compromising an individual’s functional abilities. Learn more about why each is contraindicated for occupational therapy.

Righting vs Equilibrium vs Protective Reactions in Occupational Therapy

What are Righting vs Equilibrium vs Protective Reactions? See a comparison table and learn how to incorporate occupations into the assessment process concerning patient’s righting reactions, equilibrium reactions, and protective reactions in real-life contexts. Techniques described include breaking down occupations (activity analysis), creating simulated environments, and gathering subjective input to develop targeted interventions and enhance patient functional performance and safety.

BIG List of Sample IEP Goals for School Occupational Therapy

1. Abstract thinking: The student will develop abstract thinking skills to understand and apply concepts or ideas that are not concrete or directly observable. 2. Adaptive equipment and strategies: The student will learn to use adaptive equipment or strategies to accommodate physical or cognitive challenges and maximize independence in daily activities. 3. Assistive technology: The … Read more

Alternative Outcome Measures (with Examples) to Behavioral Reward-Based Approach in School Occupational Therapy

Why Not Behavioral in School In a recent blog post, I discussed the limitations of the rewards-based behavioral approach commonly used in schools. I highlight how relying solely on external incentives can have negative effects, such as a short-term focus, dependency on rewards, diminished interest in learning, unrealistic expectations, competition, narrow task focus, and a … Read more

The Problem With Rewards-Based Approach to School Occupational Therapy

In occupational therapy school, students learn about the behavioral approach for pediatrics and mental health. This approach is widely popular across different practices and beliefs from parenting to schools to the workplace. However, there are many potential problems with using a systematic rewards-based approach in schools for students and their learning, motivation, success, and growth. … Read more