• Physical therapists provide examination, evaluation, diagnosis and interventions for patients who have impairments or change in their physical function due to illness, disease or surgery. 

• Occupational therapists help patients to improve their everyday living and working skills. Their patients may have physical, mental, developmental or emotional disabilities. Occupational therapists' focus is to help patients become more independent and successful.

What Physical Therapists Do

• Physical therapists examine patients, then test and measure their posture, muscle performance, balance, coordination, strength and range of motion. They then develop treatment plans with projected goals and outcomes. The plan's intent is to increase strength, balance, coordination and endurance. Other measures like hot packs, cold compresses, electrical stimulation and ultrasound may be used to relieve pain and reduce swelling. Traction and deep tissue massage are other methods used. Educating patients in the use of assistance devices such as crutches, wheelchairs and prosthetics may also be part of the physical therapist's job.

What Occupational Therapists Do

• Occupational therapists may work exclusively with a particular population that needs assistance, such as those with cerebral palsy, the elderly, children or those with substance abuse problems. They must do an assessment of their patients' needs and design therapy programs to help them overcome deficiencies. They may help with time management, budgeting, listening, following directions or social interaction. Almost any kind of life skill is part of the occupational therapist's work.