Occupational Therapy vs. Physical Therapy: What’s the Difference in Pelvic Health?
I often get asked if occupational therapy is just a subspecialty of physical therapy. The truth is, while OT and PT work closely together, they are two different careers with their own focus.
Big Picture vs. Physical Focus
Physical Therapy (PT) is all about helping you get your body moving again — restoring strength, mobility, and range of motion.
Occupational Therapy (OT) looks at the whole person. We don’t just think about your muscles — we also consider your habits, emotions, routines, and daily roles. Our job is to make sure you can actually do the things you want and need to do in life.
Think of it this way:
PT helps you get where you want to go.
OT helps you do what you want to do.
How This Applies to Pelvic Health
Pelvic floor challenges aren’t just about the body — they affect your everyday life. You might come to occupational therapy because of:
Worrying about leakage or odor at work
Avoiding long car rides for fear of not finding a bathroom
Struggling to lift your baby into the car seat after delivery
Pain or discomfort during intimacy
Constipation, urgency, or other bathroom concerns
As an OT, I help you look at how these issues connect to your routines, relationships, and confidence.
What We Work On
In pelvic health occupational therapy, we may focus on things like:
Strategies for bathroom habits, fluid intake, and urge control
Stress management and relaxation techniques
Core and pelvic floor muscle coordination
Time management to fit in self-care and bathroom breaks
Safe body mechanics for lifting or carrying
Adapting your home or work setup to make life easier
Trauma-informed care
The goal isn’t just better muscle function — it’s helping you feel comfortable and confident in your daily life.
Contact Today
Give me a call or text at 801-215-9789 to schedule a free consultation to increase your confidence every day.
