Occupational Therapy and Music Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury
Occupational therapy is a type of therapy that utilizes activities of daily living to increase an individual’s independence. During rehabilitation, your occupational therapist will collaborate with you and your family in setting achievable objectives, as well as teaching you the necessary skillset for success.
Music plays an integral role in occupational therapy, encouraging patients to practice their exercises and enhance cognitive and behavioral skills. Furthermore, music helps patients relax and reduce stress – particularly beneficial for those suffering from spinal cord injuries.
OT can assist people with spinal cord injuries in becoming more independent and equipped to deal with their new disabilities. It may even prepare them for a return to school or work.
Additionally, it can help you manage your daily tasks and prevent potential issues like urinary incontinence.
One of the most prevalent issues for those with spinal cord injuries is incontinence. OT can teach you how to use urinary catheters and manage your bladder so that there are no leaks.
Your therapist can also teach you how to utilize bathroom aids that make it simpler for you to shower and take care of yourself. For instance, they may suggest wearing a universal cuff on your wrist for added grip when handling items like toothbrushes or hair brushes.
Non-slip mats in your bathtub can help you stand up safely and remain stable. This is especially helpful for individuals with spinal cord injuries who struggle to hold onto things tightly due to a lack of muscle strength in their arms and hands.
Stair lifts can be an invaluable aid in preventing falls at home, especially for individuals with spinal cord injuries who have decreased trunk stability or weak core strength. Not only does it reduce time spent getting up and down stairs, but it provides extra support to those using wheelchairs.
Study Assesses the Effectiveness of Music-Assisted Relaxation on Spinal Cord Injury Recovery: A Pilot Study
Spinal cord injuries are serious conditions requiring extensive rehabilitation. Patients and their families often endure a stressful period during this period, which may affect their quality of life as well as how they interact with others. Occupational therapists have discovered that music helps relax patients and improves respiratory functioning by increasing oxygen levels in the lungs and encouraging deeper breathing.
