Combining individualized care plans, therapeutic expertise, and clinical innovation to help people get back to the life they love.
Improve functional abilities, regain independence
At Sheltering Arms Institute, our occupational therapists utilize current evidence-based techniques and technologies to help people improve their ability to execute activities of daily living such as eating, grooming, dressing, bathing, and toileting as well as meal preparation, driving*, and more.
We are focused on improving skills to increase the overall quality of life and well-being of our patients.
*Please note: While Sheltering Arms Institute’s off-road driving simulator can help assess many skills important for driving, our driving evaluations do not include an on-road component. Therefore, our simulator does not meet criteria outlined by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to be considered a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS). If your doctor or the DMV recommends a CDRS evaluation, please be aware that our driving evaluations will not qualify.
Goal-oriented rehabilitation and recovery
Occupational therapy at Sheltering Arms Institute is a goal-oriented program designed to help individuals achieve optimal functional outcomes in the wake of, or even well after, a traumatic injury, illness, or disease diagnosis.
Everyone in need of physical rehab can benefit from occupational therapy, however, the following are common conditions that lead someone to benefit from occupational therapy. Our treatments are then geared toward the diagnosis and symptoms that patients are experiencing.
My occupational therapists knew that I liked fishing so they hooked me up to the Diego robotic arm support and gave me a fishing rod so that I could practice casting it in inflatable tubes.
Proven techniques, modern technologies
Our licensed occupational therapists work in concert with our medical teams, utilizing state-of-the-science rehabilitation facilities and technologies to drive measurable patient improvements and outcomes.
Robotic arm assistance for integrated arm and hand exercises
Exoskeleton apparatus with integrated spring mechanism allowing upper-extremity weight support for arm and hand exercises
Computer-based, touchscreen software to improve oculomotor and motor control as well as cognitive learning
A body weight support harness system utilized during balance training, weight-bearing exercises, and other forms of rehabilitation
Arm weight support device for upper extremity rehabilitation for neurological and orthopedic conditions
The application of electrical current to strengthen muscles and increase active range of motion
An all-directional, 3D bodyweight support system that provides adjustable vertical and horizontal forces
Flexible glove that measures range of motion of the forearm, wrist, and fingers to improve upper extremity function
Provides visual and auditory feedback to motivate users through gamified fine-motor and gross-motor training
Inpatient and outpatient treatment options
Sheltering Arms Institute offers occupational therapy in both the inpatient and outpatient settings.
A key component of rehabilitation from a significant accident, injury or illness, that requires an extended stay at our main hospital, inpatient occupational therapy at Sheltering Arms Institute is individually designed and fully integrated with clinical strategies.
Conveniently located throughout Richmond and Central Virginia, one-on-one outpatient occupational therapy services at Sheltering Arms Institute help people recover from a wide range of injuries and conditions. Outpatient therapy can help patients continue to progress after discharge from inpatient rehabilitation or can be the starting point of recovery.
Understanding occupational therapy
Occupational therapists (OTs) help people participate in their desired occupations with the therapeutic use of everyday activities, based on the personal interests and needs of the individual. OTs consider occupations as the activities people need and want to do, such as dressing, bathing, using the restroom, making meals, managing medications, driving, going to school or work, playing, caring for family members, and much more.
OT considers the complex relationship between the patient, the desired activity, and the environment in which the activity takes place. Anyone who is having difficulty participating in an activity that they need or want to (dressing, bathing, using the restroom, grooming, driving, etc.) can benefit from and is appropriate for occupational therapy. Occupational therapy treats a wide variety of illnesses, injuries, and diseases
Occupational therapy focuses on a person’s individual goals and includes:
Occupational therapy services may also include evaluations of the individual’s home and/or other environments to make recommendations for any adaptive equipment that may be beneficial for the individual. The OT will also complete thorough, patient-specific education for family members and caregivers as needed.
Inpatient therapy is offered at our Short Pump location. To qualify for inpatient rehabilitation, patients must require not only occupational therapy, but also physical and/or speech therapy as well as daily medical supervision from a physician. Patients stay in the hospital and receive at least three hours of therapy, five days a week.
Outpatient services are offered at all of our locations aside from Hull St. and Chester. Appointment time and frequency vary based on each patient’s need, however, visits range from 45 minutes once a week to a more intensive approach of two hours, several days per week.
Start your Journey
Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.
