Occupational therapy in neurology: celebrating OT Week 2024
News
This Occupational Therapy Week, we are celebrating the invaluable contributions of occupational therapists in the field of neurology. With the theme 'the power of occupational therapy – transforming health and social care' we’re highlighting the essential role occupational therapists play in empowering individuals to participate fully in daily life, especially when navigating the challenges of neurological conditions.
Occupational therapists are essential members of the multidisciplinary teams supporting people with conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's, dementia and motor neurone disease. Their specialised knowledge and patient-centred approach empower people to reclaim independence, adapt to daily challenges, and improve their quality of life. They address cognitive and sensory changes, manage fatigue, and promote emotional well-being.
Here are a few thoughts from our brilliant OT speakers over the years:
Joanne Hurford
Clinical specialist occupational therapist, National Hospital for Neurology
“As an occupational therapist in vocational rehabilitation, I am privileged to support individuals with neurological conditions as they navigate the complexities of managing their health in the workplace. This work is incredibly fulfilling; I enjoy understanding each person's unique occupational roles, observing how they perform their jobs, and collaborating to help them reach their fullest potential.
A key part of my role is working within a multidisciplinary team, which is equally rewarding. I value our team's diverse perspectives, specialised knowledge, and collective problem-solving, as it allows us to deliver the most effective and comprehensive care. This collaborative environment enables me to provide holistic support that addresses each client's needs from multiple angles.
As an occupational therapist, my approach is rooted in a deep understanding of how work environments and tasks interact with neurological impairments. This perspective allows me to design tailored interventions that address specific sensory, physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges clients may encounter. Together, we explore practical ways to overcome any barriers, which often include strategies for self-management, educating employers, and negotiating reasonable adjustments to ensure individuals can thrive in their roles. I am motivated by the positive impact of this work, empowering individuals to maintain a balanced approach to work, rest, and play.”
Joanne Hurford, clinical specialist occupational therapist, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery
Joanne Hurford at our MS Advanced MasterClass 18 Module 2, November 2023
Helen Cole
MS specialist occupational therapist, Poole Hospital University Hospitals Dorset
“There's not many careers that you can do for 30 years and still absolutely love it. Occupational therapy provides a holistic and very essential service to patients. Occupational therapists have so much to offer, and I love the diversity. I love empowering patients, and I think we are the profession of the future, and occupational therapists need to get out there and really educate people on the uniqueness and value of our profession.”
Helen Cole, MS specialist occupational therapist, University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust
Helen Cole at our MS Foundation MasterClass 17 Module 2, November 2023
Lynsay Duke
Associate AHP director neurological and specialist services/ professional lead neuro occupational therapy, Walkergate Park Centre for Neurorehabilitation and Neuropsychiatry
“Occupational therapists are an integral part of the team providing interventions for people with a neurological disorder. Accessing the training provided by the Neurology Academy will enhance your understanding and skill and a place to showcase our OT skills.
Teaching on the Spasticity Academy sessions has enabled me to demonstrate the role OTs have to play as well as enhance my own learning.”
Lynsay Duke, associate AHP director for neurological and specialist services, professional lead neuro occupational therapy, Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust
Lynsay Duke at our Spasticity MasterClass 1, November 2024
Joanna Rutkowska-Wheeldon
Occupational therapist, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
“The role of an occupational therapist in MS service is very unique. I work with pwMS to maximise their level of independence, in the broad meaning of this word. This might include supporting pwMS in education or work, carrying on with a hobby, or basic functional tasks such as personal care, or care for others.
I also have a very important place in symptom management either MS or DMT related symptoms. As an occupational therapist, I have core skills that enable me to support those struggling with fatigue, sleep, cognition but also physical challenges.”
Joanna Rutkowska-Wheeldon, occupational therapist, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
Joanna Rutkowska-Wheeldon MS Foundation MasterClass 17 Module 2, November 2023
We also spoke to two speakers at our MS Foundation MasterClass today, who shared their thoughts on the importance of occupational therapy in their neurology teams:
"Occupational therapists are integral to an effective multi-disciplinary team. Helping people with MS better manage symptoms such as fatigue, difficulties with work through vocational rehabilitation, and practical solutions for issues with activities of daily living to minimise the impact of symptoms."
Noreen Barker, consultant MS nurse, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
“I wish we had a specific OT within our MS service, as I think this would be of enormous benefit to our patients.”
Dr Kate Petheram, consultant neurologist, South Tyneside & Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust
We’re proud to support a multidisciplinary approach in our education, ensuring that occupational therapists and other allied health professionals are an essential part of our programmes and events. Their insights make a huge difference in helping patients achieve better outcomes and live fuller lives.
We often hear from delegates how much they enjoy our joint presentations by different MDT roles. Hearing these varied perspectives really helps open their eyes to the unique strengths each profession brings to patient care and gives them a better understanding of how we all work best together.
Together, we’re providing education for the entire MDT team, fostering collaboration across disciplines to ensure everyone with a neurological condition receives comprehensive, impactful care.
Have a look at some of our delegate projects over the years around occupational therapy in neurology:
- The occupational therapy role in a new multi-professional dementia diagnostic pathway
By Pauline Carlyle, clinical allied health professional specialist - occupational therapist, Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust - A checklist to ensure monitoring and adequate therapy assessment of various aspects of quality of life(qol) of people with multiple sclerosis in an acute setting
By Love Atere, occupational therapist, Yeovil District Hospital NHS Foundation Trust - Brain health and occupational therapy
By Fiona Barclay, occupational therapist, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Glasgow - MS Discharge Checklist
By Victor Oghenenyerovwome Iki, specialist occupational therapist, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust - Occupational Therapy Intervention… Who Knew!
By Clare Johnson, specialist OT Parkinson’s, Derby
Related articles
Uniquely practical education, producing specialist clinical leaders transforming local healthcare
Neurology Academy is an innovative educational provider for healthcare professionals including consultants, specialist nurses, pharmacists, therapists and other allied health professionals. Our courses are developed by practicing specialists who combine their experience and expertise into case-based learning designed to create specialists in their field with confidence in effecting change.