Not the same as physical therapy, which focuses mainly on strength, movement, and pain control. Occupational therapy is treatment that helps a person regain the ability to do everyday tasks after an injury, illness, or disability - things like getting dressed, cooking, driving, using tools, writing, bathing, or returning to work safely. It often includes exercises, adaptive equipment, home or job-site changes, and training in safer ways to complete routine activities when the body or brain is not working the same way as before.

That matters fast after a crash or workplace injury because the record from an occupational therapist can show how the injury affects real-life function, not just a diagnosis on paper. After a pileup during a whiteout squall on I-96, for example, someone may be able to walk but still be unable to button a shirt, grip a steering wheel, or handle job tasks. Those limits can support a claim for medical benefits, wage loss, or disability.

In Michigan, occupational therapy may be covered as an allowable medical expense under the Michigan No-Fault Act, MCL 500.3107(1)(a), if it is reasonably necessary for care, recovery, or rehabilitation. It may also be covered under the Workers' Disability Compensation Act of 1969. Delays, missed referrals, or gaps in treatment can give an insurer room to argue the therapy was unnecessary, so getting evaluated and documenting limitations quickly can protect a claim.