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Occupational Therapy in Pain Patients

Occupational therapy is indicated in ambulatory and wheelchair patients who have musculoskeletal pain caused by trauma, disease, or other factors. The goal is to achieve the greatest possible degree of independence in everyday activities and increased quality of life.

Diagnostic Procedures

  • History and examination
  • Status of the muscles, joints, and hand strength in the upper extremities
  • Fine-motor and sensitivity testing
  • Observation during activities
  • COPM (Canadian Occupational Performance Measure) testing


Functional Training

  • Training of movement patterns (compensation and function) involved in everyday life
  • Strengthening the upper extremities
  • Sensitivity training (desensitisation, stimulation)
  • Somatosensory therapy
  • Mirror therapy

Ergonomic Counseling and Evaluation

  • During everyday activities (self-care, housework, driving, etc.)
  • At the workplace
  • During leisure activities
  • Evaluation of remedial devices (wheelchair, cushions, various devices for the home, etc.)
  • Evaluation of sitting posture
  • Technical evaluation of vehicle suitability

Strategies for Coping with Pain

  • Structuring the days, planning the weeks (keeping a pain diary)
  • “Brain training“ (method of  Verena Schweizer, Cogpack) to improve concentration and vigilance
  • Increasing stress tolerance
  • Developing self-help techniques, recognising resources

Additional information

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