Theories Of Occupational Therapy

Introduction
Defined as a set of phenomena and relationships (Sladyk, 2015), a theory is the foundation of various concepts. Many of today’s inventions, companies, and practices all have one thing in common. They all a theory behind its purpose. A statement or idea of how a particular envisioned concept is supposed to be guided. There a theories about everything imaginable, such as, life on Earth, the Solar System, even religion. However, occupational therapy is no different. The theoretical foundation for occupational therapy comes from sciences like anatomy and physiology, for example (Sladyk, 2015). When working with a client a practitioner will likely use a Frame of Reference model, but to successfully cater to the individual in need

often time multiple models will be required. Addressed models such as the biomechanical and neurodevelopmental will be discussed to show similarities, differences, and successful areas for the theories.
While many clients not know or understand the difference between the three, it is important for an OT practitioner to understand the differences between a theory, frame of reference, and model. Should a client ever acquire a practitioner would carefully explain a theory is how or why something has happened, such as the injury. The model is then implemented to define the area of concern. Which is where the frame of reference comes in to link the two for guidance of the practice.
Similarities
Both service a guideline Frame of Reference for physical function, one could strongly conclude these two particular models are often times used in OT practice. As many other things in the OT practice the biochemical and neurodevelopmental depends heavily upon one another. For instance, in the biomechanical model the individual must have an intact brain. The individual will need to be intact mentally to be able to produce isolated, coordinated movements (Sladyk, 2015). Whereas with the neurodevelopmental the individual must relearn what normal movement is by physically experiencing the particular movements and get the feel all over again of what it is like in order to retain.
Differences
In the biomechanical Frame of Reference through the uses of purposeful activities an increase in range of motion, strength, and endurance are the focus.

Whereas in neurodevelopmental the main objective is to regain the skills once held before returning to normal movement. Such as, a factor such as postural control is necessary before one can successfully move the limbs.
Biomechanical:
According to Sladyk, Frame of Reference in the biomechanical aspect.
• Based on sciences such as anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology.
• Focus on structural stability, endurance, edema, range of motion, and strength are addressed.
• One must be rested, then stressed
An example of clinical application of this frame of reference can be seen when working with a baseball player who is need of a rotator cuff repair. Using the biomechanical frame of reference as the chosen model, an OT/ COTA practitioner can gradually improve positioning by using a sling.
Neurodevelopmental:
According to Sladyk, Frame of Reference in the biomechanical aspect.
• Known as NDT, this frame of reference is only used for individuals with a neurological

deficit.
• Theories arise from a neurological, developmental, and dynamic system prospective.
• Postural stability is needed for limb mobility.
An example, of NDT is a condition such as a child with cerebral palsy, which is a condition that affects ones muscle tone and ability to purposely move in a non-awkward manner.
Theories Aligned:
The biomechanical and neurodevelopmental theories can align many different areas. However, mental health and geriatrics are two areas where both theories can be highly useful. Mental health would be a great area for the two theories not only because it is the area where mental health first started but also the two theories can be used to work together. For instance, I was able to see firsthand how occupational therapy and mental health went together hand in hand. Working as a mental health assistant, I was able to see the occupational therapist worked with an young child, who had behavioral issues, gradually learn to fully reach for thing such as a toothbrush on her own. A great amount of repetition, patience, and practice after the OT had left for the day eventually help the little girl.
The geriatric is also another great area because more of the elderly adults are living longer; therefore often times require more therapy from a physical and mental standpoint. From seeing my own grandparents start to experience hardships when getting older to observing in an assisted living facility it is safe to assume that daily living becomes a challenge because of chronic illnesses or health-related disabilities. Which often times limit one’s ability to successfully self-care. Because self-care seems to be what the elderly need assistance with along with cooking, cleaning, or even bathing if they live alone; biomechanical and neurodevelopmental are the two theories to best assist when regaining everyday living skills.
Conclude:
Defined as a set of phenomena and relationships (Sladyk, 2015), a theory is the foundation of various concepts.

A statement or idea of how a particular envisioned concept is supposed to be guided. The theoretical foundation for occupational therapy comes from sciences like anatomy and physiology, for example (Sladyk, 2015). When working with a client, rather young, middle aged or elderly, a practitioner will most likely use a Frame of Reference model. However, to successfully cater to the needs of the individual sometimes multiple models will be required. Addressed models such as the biomechanical and neurodevelopmental are two completely different models yet work very well together to achieve one common goal: to improve the well-being of the

individual.