OT conversations

In this OT Conversation episode, Hao provides a perspective on competency in occupational therapy for patients receiving ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation). Diving into the meaning of competency beyond technical skills, Hao explains its essence as the ability to deliver effective care in complex environments. The presentation focuses on the triad of OT competency—assessment, planning, goal-setting, and intervention. There is a particular emphasis on collaborating with other disciplines while staying within the OT scope, and avoiding tasks like machine manipulation, which belong to other specialists. Hao underscores the importance of understanding patients' values, daily activities, and emotional states in de...

Hello and welcome to OT Conversations, your go-to podcast for everything occupational therapy! We invite you to tune into our latest episode, where we dive deep into the world of marketing in occupational therapy. This is not just about business; it's about effectively communicating our services' immense value and benefits to clients, patients, healthcare providers, and the wider community. Join us as our host, Hao, an experienced occupational therapist, discusses key elements of marketing, the importance of stakeholder engagement, practical strategies, and the ethical considerations involved. Whether you're a private practitioner, working in the NHS, or in the public...

In this episode of 'OT Conversations,' occupational therapist Hao dives into postural control retraining. This intervention focuses on improving a patient's ability to maintain an upright position, which is essential for engaging in daily activities, work, and leisure. Hao breaks down the process, starting with head control, emphasizing muscle stimulation and proprioceptive feedback. He explains techniques such as proprioceptive stimulation, trunk elongation, rotation, and pelvic bridging to facilitate postural control. The presentation also touches on the importance of head, neck, and trunk coordination and the role of reflexes like righting reactions. Hao advocates for hands-on, fast, and unpredictable...

In this episode of 'Occupational Therapy Conversations,' Hao, an experienced occupational therapist, speaks directly to Band 5 occupational therapists and students. He emphasizes the importance of ongoing learning beyond university education, describing occupational therapy as a calling rather than just a job. Hao discusses the need to build a strong foundation in knowledge and skills, encouraging young clinicians to stay curious and proactive in their professional development. He also highlights the unique role of OTs in facilitating meaningful engagement and healing for individuals, stressing the importance of self-respect, responsibility, and ongoing growth in the field. The conversation encourages listeners...

In this episode of OT Conversations, Hao, an experienced Occupational Therapist, shares an insightful and detailed walkthrough of upper limb motor retraining. Addressing an elderly patient with post-stroke hemiplegia, Hao explains his systematic approach, starting with sensory assessments, reflex evaluations, and proprioceptive stimulation. He discusses techniques like tapping, vibratory input, and quick stretches aimed at reactivating muscle movements. Hao emphasizes the importance of understanding the patient's sensory and motor conditions and champions using foundational techniques for effective rehabilitation. This episode offers a comprehensive guide for therapists seeking to improve their practical skills in upper limb rehabilitation.

In this episode of OT Conversations, Hao explores the fundamentals of wheelchairs. Hao covers various types of wheelchairs, including manual, power, and specialized wheelchairs, along with their unique features and uses. He also discusses key considerations for prescribing wheelchairs, such as mobility needs, physical capabilities, and environmental factors. Learn how to measure for seat width, seat depth, seat height, backrest height, and armrest height to ensure optimal comfort and functionality for wheelchair users. This insightful talk highlights the importance of proper assessment and customization in improving a person's mobility and quality of life.

In this eisode of OT conversations, Hao and guest Maria tackle the urgent care needs of a four-month-old baby diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type one (SMA type 1). They review the failed car seat challenge, where the child's oxygen saturation levels dropped significantly when placed in a car seat, and explore alternative transportation and therapeutic options. They highlight the need for a specialized referral to a car seat assessment company and discuss methods to increase the child’s tolerance for upright positioning. The conversation also covers potential funding issues and the gap in community care services for such specialized ne...

In this episode of OT Conversations, the host explores the evolving recognition of sleep as a critical occupation within the field of occupational therapy. Initially overlooked, sleep is now seen as essential for bodily restoration, brain function, energy conservation, and emotional regulation. The discussion delves into the biological and psychological facets of sleep, differentiates between REM and NREM stages, and outlines the profound impact of sleep on daily living activities. Practical insights are provided on sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, optimizing the sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants. Advanced interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy for...

In this episode of OT Conversations, Hao, an occupational therapist, discusses the condition of cervical radiculopathy through the case of Mr. John Smith, a 42-year-old data analyst with a history of neck pain radiating to his right arm. Symptoms include weakness, numbness, and tingling, exacerbated by long periods at the computer and alleviated by rest. Clinical examinations revealed restricted neck motion, positive Spurling's test, and decreased sensation. The diagnosis was cervical radiculopathy, likely at the C6 nerve root. Treatment involved NSAIDs, heat therapy, ergonomic adjustments, and a range of physical and occupational therapies focusing on stabilization and postural training...

In this episode of 'OT Conversations,' Hao, an occupational therapist, discusses the term 'trache weaning,' commonly used in healthcare to describe reducing dependency on tracheostomy tubes. Hao argues that this term is a misnomer since it inaccurately describes the process involved, which is actually about weaning off mechanical ventilation. The focus should be on respiratory rehabilitation to enhance a patient's ability to breathe independently. Hao emphasizes the role of occupational therapists in this process by engaging patients in activities that strengthen respiratory muscles. While occupational therapists play a supportive role, the decision to remove the tracheostomy tube...

In this episode of OT Conversations, hosted by occupational therapist Hao, the topic of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy is discussed in detail. CPAP is a common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, limiting airflow to the lungs. Hao explains how CPAP machines work by keeping the airways open using a mask connected to a machine that delivers air at a prescribed pressure. The benefits include reduced symptoms of sleep apnea, improved sleep quality, better daytime alertness, and decreased cardiovascular risk. Challenges such as mask discomfort, noise, and maintenance are...

In this episode of OT Conversations, Hao, an occupational therapist, discusses trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis. The condition is characterized by a finger or thumb getting stuck in a bent position and suddenly straightening with a snapping motion. Hao explains the anatomy involved, including the flexor tendons and tendon sheaths. Causes of trigger finger include long-term irritation, overuse of the flexor tendons, repetitive hand movements, underlying medical conditions, and hormonal changes. Symptoms include finger stiffness, popping sensations, and locked fingers. Diagnosis involves physical examinations, provocative tests, and ultrasounds. Non-surgical treatments include rest, activity modification, splinting, ice or...

In this episode of OT Conversations, Hao discusses the importance of understanding vital signs and their functional implications in an acute care setting. The episode covers essential body functions reflected by vital signs like body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and pain levels. Each vital sign's normal ranges, potential causes for abnormalities, and their impacts are explained. The discussion includes practical tips for occupational therapists to effectively assess, remember, and respond to these vital signs to tailor their therapeutic interventions. The episode emphasizes practicing and discussing vital signs to become a better clinician and suggests...

In this episode of OT Conversations, Hao discusses the topic of gait, which is typically covered by physiotherapists. The conversation covers the basics of walking, the phases of gait (stance and swing), and the sub-phases within each major phase. Hau explains various normal and abnormal gait patterns, including antalgic, ataxic, Parkinsonian, Trendelenburg, steppage, scissoring, hemiplegic, and equinus gaits. The episode emphasizes the importance of gait analysis for detecting musculoskeletal and neurological issues, aiding in mobility aid prescription, and planning effective rehabilitation. Hao also discusses the role of occupational therapists in functional mobility retraining and the use of adaptive aids...

This is a Journal article review of the article entitled, 'An Unbelievable Ordeal, The Experiences of Adult Survivors Treated with ECMO' by Dr.  Kirsten Knudsen and her colleagues. This RIOT episode dives into the incredible journeys of adults who have undergone Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) treatment. It explores the challenges, emotional struggles, and triumphs of these survivors as they navigate their extended recovery process.

Hao, an occupational therapist, welcomes viewers to an episode of OT Conversations focused on the anatomy of the hand. Highlighting the significance of understanding hand anatomy for occupational therapy, Hao breaks down the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and movements of the hand. Key points include the 27 bones categorized into carpals, metacarpals, and phalanges, and details on intrinsic and extrinsic muscles. Further, she discusses how the median, ulnar, and radial nerves function and the blood supply through the radial and ulnar arteries. The episode aims to provide foundational knowledge in an engaging and memorable way.

In this episode of OT Conversations, occupational therapist How discusses the case of Amish, a 12-year-old girl diagnosed with camptodactyly, a condition characterized by bent little fingers that can hinder activities like playing the clarinet and writing. Joined by regular guest Maria, the conversation covers the anatomical and embryological basis of camptodactyly, assessment techniques, and conservative management strategies, including splinting and stretching exercises. The episode also delves into the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, involving GPs, hand consultants, and potentially school coordinators, to ensure comprehensive care and support for pediatric patients.

In this episode of OT Conversations, Hao, an occupational therapist, discusses the concept of capacity assessment. Capacity assessment is a formal evaluation to determine an individual's ability to make informed decisions regarding their health, finances, legal matters, daily activities, and other life aspects. It is critical in medical, legal, and therapeutic settings and aims to evaluate cognition, emotional, and functional abilities. The talk covers the objectives of capacity assessment, such as ensuring decision-making ability, safety, legal and medical guidance, and support for rehabilitation planning. It identifies the populations needing capacity assessments, including those with neurological conditions, the elderly, individuals...

In this episode of OT Conversations, the host emphasizes the declining practice of capacity and cognitive assessments by occupational therapists over the past decade. Highlighting four major reasons, including advocacy for autonomy, expertise in functional and psychological abilities, and cognitive skills, the host argues for the crucial role OTs play in assessing patients' capacities. The session underscores the need for confidence and skill development in this area, cautions against the shift of these responsibilities to social services, and calls for occupational therapists to reclaim and maintain these essential practices to uphold the profession's value. Practical tips for assessing capacity...

In this episode of OT Conversations, HAO discusses the fundamental aspects of respiratory conditions relevant to occupational therapy. The key focus is on the journey of oxygen from the atmosphere into the body's cells, detailing how oxygen enters through the nose, travels down the windpipe, bronchi, and into alveoli where it exchanges with carbon dioxide in the bloodstream. Several respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and lung cancer are examined, highlighting their impact on gas exchange and daily function. HAO emphasizes the importance of understanding these processes for effective therapy and advises on treatment adaptations, exercise techniques like square...

In this episode of OT Conversations, we talk about the critical role of head and neck control in rehabilitation, especially for patients experiencing severe deconditioning. We highlight that while much focus is often placed on gross motor skills and endurance training, ensuring proper head and neck movements is foundational. We emphasize that head control is crucial for overall body movement and provide various techniques for stimulating and strengthening the neck, including proprioceptive and vestibular stimulation through methods like manual massage, using a Theraball, and controlled wheelchair movements. We advocate for integrating these practices into therapy sessions to enhance patient...

In this episode of OT Conversations, we talk about the importance of labeling your therapeutic interventions. The focus of this episode is on 'Cross Hemispheric Facilitation'—a therapeutic approach that promotes communication between the two hemispheres of the brain through activities using both sides of the body. Here, we talk about the the benefits, techniques, and goals associated with this method, such as enhancing bilateral coordination, stimulating cognitive functions, and promoting neurological recovery. This episode is a valuable resource for occupational therapists looking to improve their documentation and effectively convey the significance of their interventions.

In this episode of OT Conversations, we explore the various treatments and interventions available to Occupational Therapists, with a special focus on electrotherapy. Discover what electrotherapy is, its applications in pain management and rehabilitation, and the different types of electrotherapy, such as TENS, NMES, and IFC. Learn how they are integrated into different therapeutic practices in our daily OT practice.

In this episode of 'OT Conversations,' we discuss the significance and various aspects of clinical documentation in the field of occupational therapy. The talk outlines four key reasons for documenting clinical activities: maintaining a chronological record of the patient's condition, facilitating communication among healthcare professionals, providing an objective basis for evaluating therapeutic interventions and reflecting the practitioner's reasoning. We highlight five types of clinical documentation: the evaluation report, contact/treatment/visit notes, progress report, re-evaluation report, and discharge/discontinuation report, detailing their specific components and purposes. Additionally, Hao emphasizes the importance of adhering to documentation standards to promote...

In this episode of OT Conversations, we discuss the concept of Epicritic System Facilitation. Discover the importance of this therapeutic technique aimed at activating and enhancing the Epicritic Sensory System, which is crucial for fine touch, vibration, texture discrimination, and proprioception. Learn about the different types of receptors involved, their specialized pathways, and practical sensory retraining techniques. This episode provides valuable insights for addressing neurological conditions, improving motor control, and enhancing overall quality of life. Perfect for clinicians looking to expand their knowledge and refine their therapeutic interventions.

In this episode of 'OT Conversations,' Hao, an occupational therapist, discusses the benefits and under-utilization of the tilt table in rehabilitation. He explains how tilt tables have historically helped patients achieve an upright posture and provided essential weight-bearing stimuli for bones and muscles. Despite their numerous benefits, tilt tables have fallen out of favor in modern therapy practices. Hao details proper usage techniques, the safety features to consider, and the physiological importance of achieving postural control through tilt tables. He also contrasts tilt tables with other devices like standing hoists and Sarastedis, emphasizing the comprehensive benefits of verticalization...

Providing occupational therapy in critical care is no small feat. Patients are often awake but limited in communication or mobility, connected to life-support devices, and unable to engage in traditional rehabilitation activities. In these moments, therapy goes beyond techniques—it becomes about connection.

Success starts with truly knowing your patient, not just their diagnosis, but their interests, values, and what gives their life meaning. Equally important is knowing yourself as a therapist. Your creativity, life experiences, and ability to find joy and purpose play a critical role in creating meaningful engagement.

Simple, personalized activities—playing musi...

In this discussion, Hao, an occupational therapist, focuses on the complex issue of delirium, which is described as a prominent topic within multidisciplinary healthcare teams. Hao explains that while delirium's biochemical underpinnings and historical context are widely recognized, the critical question remains: "Then what?" He emphasizes the need for a practical approach to management rather than just theoretical knowledge.

Hao advocates for a multisensory approach to treating delirium, highlighting the effectiveness of visual and auditory enhancements, like using glasses and adjusting lighting, to improve patient orientation and cognition. However, he notes these strategies are not sufficient on...

The episode tells the story of a patient, Mr. C, who was treated by Hao about 20 years ago. Mr. C, in his 80s, had severe deconditioning and muscle wasting following a thigh fracture and long hospital stays. Unable to walk or even perform simple movements, he was resigned to a wheelchair, with little hope for recovery, according to physiotherapists.

The therapist saw the potential for recovery due to Mr. C’s intact neurological function and developed a rehabilitation program. Starting with minimal muscle movements, the plan included:

A young girl, just ten years old, suffered from severe jaw pain caused by juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Eating and speaking became daily struggles, and her family was deeply concerned.

They turned to occupational therapist Rubina Diesel, who crafted a holistic plan. Rubina prescribed jaw exercises, advised avoiding hard foods, and introduced mindfulness techniques to reduce strain. The girl followed the program diligently, with her family’s support.

After a year, her pain was gone, and specialists confirmed her jaw was realigned. This story shows how care, collaboration, and dedication can transform lives through occupational therapy

In this episode, Hao emphasizes the critical role of screening as the first step in identifying patients who need further occupational therapy interventions. Screening is a quick, surface-level assessment that filters cases for deeper evaluation, often performed by OTs, nurses, or referrers. It transitions into monitoring or assessment when problems are identified, and therapy plans are created.

Hao highlights challenges in screening, such as inconsistencies when done by non-OT professionals and its time-intensive nature. He stresses the importance of educating healthcare teams about OT’s role in improving referral quality and advocates for proactive screening by OTs to...

In this episode, Hao reflects on a recent conversation with a friend who is working as an occupational therapist in the United States, specifically in a nursing home in New Jersey. This friend described the demanding yet rewarding nature of his work, seeing 20-22 patients per 12-hour shift. The diverse caseload includes patients recovering from strokes, fractures, cardiac issues, and dementia. Despite the intensity, the financial rewards are significant, with estimated and assumed earnings of up to $2,200 per day.

Hao contrasts this with occupational therapy practices in the UK. While the U.S. system emphasizes variety and...

From this talk, listeners can learn about the broad scope of occupational therapy, which extends beyond rehabilitation to include performance enhancement and prevention. They’ll discover how OTs use various techniques to help people optimize their skills, improve daily performance, and prevent future challenges. The talk also highlights how OT overlaps with fields like life coaching and wellness promotion, showcasing its potential to empower individuals in all areas of life.

Today’s episode focuses on the critical need for healthcare professionals to develop business acumen. While we’re trained to deliver exceptional care, understanding the financial and operational aspects of our work is essential for advocating for resources, securing our roles, and growing our profession.

The talk provides practical tips for occupational therapists to foster a positive and collaborative relationship with patients and their families. It emphasizes the importance of positioning oneself as an advocate, reassuring patients and families that the therapist is on their side. Key strategies include focusing on the patient’s progress rather than using "I" statements, involving patients in their care decisions, and addressing family concerns by guiding them through the patient’s current abilities to manage expectations.

The therapist is advised to avoid offering extra support or adaptive aids too quickly, especially in acute or early recovery stag...

Welcome to OT Conversations. In this episode, Hao is joined by Becky, an aspiring therapist, grappling with a complex case involving sensory integration after a stroke. Listen in as we unpack the intricacies of sensory-motor approaches, fatigue management, and the everyday struggles of a patient adjusting to new limitations. Whether you're a student, a practitioner, or just curious about occupational therapy, this conversation is packed with insights, practical advice, and a deep dive into how therapy can adapt to meet individual needs.

In this episode, I talk about the disproportionate impact a small group of challenging colleagues can have on workplace dynamics, referencing the 20-80 rule where 20% of people cause 80% of difficulties. We emphasize the importance of professionalism, separating personal emotions from job responsibilities. We also discuss the disruptive influence of "emotional vampires" and advocate for assertive communication to address and resolve conflicts effectively. this episode highlights the necessity of respect and equality in maintaining a healthy work environment. Enjoy - Hao

The discussion on motor learning emphasizes the importance of a multisensory approach in therapy, integrating auditory, visual, and tactile stimuli to improve motor control. It highlights the critical role of therapist-patient interaction, where verbal commands and hands-on guidance are tailored to each patient's specific needs and condition. Effective motor learning requires individualized therapy techniques, precise timing of instructions, and the strategic use of voice tone to influence motor responses. Emphasizing practice and repetition, the narrative stresses the need for adaptable therapeutic strategies that accommodate varying disabilities and developmental stages. Ultimately, the success of motor learning depends on customized, repetitive...

Join occupational therapist Hao and his colleague Maria as they explore a comprehensive pediatric hand therapy training course. The discussion covers various aspects including the challenging assessments, the significance of empathy in clinical practice, and advanced scar management techniques. Delve into the application of skin camouflage, phases of wound healing, and the important role of General Practitioners in prescribing necessary products. Discover the potential of setting up a private OT practice linked with GP services and gain insights into children's hand development stages. This episode offers a blend of professional reflections, practical therapy applications, and the financial aspects of...

This episode of OT Conversations discusses the importance of critically evaluating patient conditions by asking 'So what?' and 'Then what?' to inform therapeutic interventions. Hao, an Occupational Therapist, highlights how these questions help in understanding the functional implications of various medical conditions, such as those encountered in critical care or neurology wards. By maintaining this mindset, therapists can develop effective, personalized care plans that address patients' daily living needs. The episode also covers the specific case of mesothelioma, emphasizing the need for therapists to address functional outcomes related to breathing difficulties and other associated challenges. The session...