Frequently Asked Questions

Physical therapy focuses on movement, strength, balance, and mobility. Occupational therapy helps people perform daily activities more independently. Speech therapy treats communication, thinking, feeding, and swallowing concerns.

No. Therapy can also help with injuries, chronic pain, dizziness, developmental delays, neurologic conditions, balance problems, pelvic floor concerns, communication difficulties, and swallowing disorders.

Physical therapy may help reduce or manage pain by improving movement, strength, flexibility, balance, and body mechanics. The treatment approach depends on the cause of the pain and the patient’s overall health.

Yes. Pediatric physical, occupational, and speech therapy can help children with movement, coordination, developmental, sensory, communication, feeding, and swallowing needs.

Yes. Therapy can help older adults improve strength, balance, walking, home safety, daily function, and confidence. It may also help reduce factors that contribute to falls.

An occupational therapist helps people perform everyday activities more safely and independently. Treatment may focus on improving physical skills, coordination, thinking, daily routines, the use of adaptive equipment, or changes to your home or work environment.

No. Work rehabilitation is one part of occupational therapy. OT can also help with injuries, surgery recovery, neurologic conditions, hand problems, developmental needs, daily living skills, driving, mobility, and many other concerns.

Yes. Occupational therapy may help a person relearn or adapt daily activities after a stroke, including self-care, household tasks, and other activities needed for greater independence. Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics provides occupational therapy for neurologic conditions, including stroke.

Yes. Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics provides occupational therapy for orthopedic conditions affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder, as well as upper-extremity injuries, post-surgical needs, and hand therapy.

The length of treatment depends on your condition, goals, progress, and individual needs. Your occupational therapist will evaluate your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.