The History of Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy is rooted in Physical therapy; therefore, in order to fully understand where it came from, one must first probe into the history of physical therapy. Physical therapy or physiotherapy can be traced as far back as ancient history. However, irrespective of the time frame, the primary goal of physiotherapy has always been to restore mobility and rehabilitation of the patient. The modern-day definition of Occupational therapy is define as the "use of productive or creative activity in the treatment or rehabilitation of physically or emotionally disabled people", based upon this definition, it is fair to conclude that nothing has changed.

For the sake of clarity and understanding, we will use the words 'occupational therapy' in exchange for 'physical therapy to explain where it came from. The first identification of Occupational therapy was recorded in the days of Hippocrates, the father of medicine. It was during 460BC, when Hippocrates introduced the idea of manually manipulating or massaging to relieve pain. This is also known in some fields as hydrotherapy. From early times the advantages of using this technique was understood and taken to heart to this very day. However, it wasn't until the 19th Century that a unified group of physical/occupational therapists or practitioners surfaced in England as the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Now the therapy practiced in America is identical to the physiotherapy practiced in other countries.

During World War I, many people educated in providing occupational therapy, or reconstruction aid during that time period, assisted injured or hurt soldiers ease their pain. But it wasn't until the early 1920s that the first OT organization was formulated in America by a woman name Mary McMillan. It was formerly known as the American Women's Physical Therapeutic Association. It wasn't long before men joined the group and the Association became known as the American Physical Therapy Association. The change of name brought about a change in curriculum and different requirements had to be met by physical or occupational therapists.