Occupational Therapy for Arthritis Management: Gail’s Story

If arthritis is making everyday tasks like gripping your toothbrush or getting in and out of your car a struggle, occupational therapy could be the key to regaining your independence. Occupational therapists are experts in helping you overcome these challenges through education, exercises, assistive devices, and orthotics.

Occupational therapy teaches you joint protection techniques, like using your entire arm instead of just your wrist to turn a doorknob, while also guiding you in pacing activities to prevent fatigue. You’ll learn how to adapt tasks and environments to fit your needs, such as swapping a doorknob for a lever that’s easier to open. They often perform home evaluations to identify safety risks and recommend modifications that make daily living easier. Custom orthotics, like wrist splints, help reduce pain and protect your joints from further damage. And, with exercises tailored to your daily struggles—such as bicep curls for lifting groceries or stretches for reaching overhead—you’ll regain strength and mobility, as highlighted by the Arthritis Foundation.

A heartwarming example of occupational therapy’s transformative power comes from Somerby Peachtree City in Peachtree City, Georgia. Christon Cardell, a Tx:Team occupational therapist, worked with Gail, a patient whose arthritis had made it impossible to wash or blow dry her own hair due to limited arm mobility. Gail relied on beauty salons just to manage these basic tasks—until Christon changed her life. After therapy, Gail joyfully shared, “I was able to raise my arms over my head, shampoo my own hair, and blow it dry. Now I get to go to the salon for enjoyment, but it’s not out of necessity.”

Gail’s journey didn’t stop there. “Therapy has been more than helpful, and I’ve continued the exercises… to keep doing things on my own with ease and not go backwards,” she added. “I am so appreciative of the therapist and her helpfulness; I can do things on my own with increased ease and less pain and don’t have to rely on others. Arthritis is still a problem, but the therapy has been essential to keep me moving!”

Gail’s story is a touching reminder of the life-changing impact occupational therapy can have for those living with arthritis—not just in restoring mobility, but in reclaiming independence, dignity, and a renewed sense of freedom. Occupational therapists work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, and even in your own home. With most health insurance plans covering occupational therapy, it’s an accessible option to help you stay active and independent, no matter your age or stage of arthritis.