Occupational Therapy

• Early and consistent OT and PT intervention is linked to better recovery and participation in meaningful activities. Our therapists work in coordination with the burn recovery team to assess and treat burn injuries. 
• Our specialized burn therapists are skilled in addressing the physical as well as psychological effects of a traumatic burn injury. They provide interventions to address scarring to prevent contracture development, support participation in play and everyday activities, and support return to school. Our therapists are trained in orthotic techniques to prevent joint contractures and promote scar mobility. Children’s National therapists are also trained in creating customized compression garments used for scar management.  
• Our staff go beyond the clinical role and are active members of the American Burn Association serving as committee members and presenting at national conferences. Our team works in collaboration with the DC Firefighter Burn Foundation to provide community resources and after-care support for families that have been affected by burn injuries. 

Learn more about our Burn Surgery Program.

• Our specialized occupational therapists provide comprehensive care for patients with brachial plexus injuries from infancy through adolescence. Our team members have received advanced training in techniques that promote active movement, prevent joint contractures and minimize long-term impairments. Therapists support achievement of developmental milestones, engagement in play and fine motor tasks, and participation in educational and recreational activities. 
• Research supports early intervention and regular monitoring to support optimal recovery. OT plays a key role in early and consistent assessment in the Brachial Plexus Program.  

• Sensory processing refers to a child’s ability to receive, organize and interpret sensory information from the environment. When a child has difficulty responding to this information, it can lead to challenges participating in their daily routines.  Our occupational therapists have received advanced training in the evaluation and treatment of children with sensory processing challenges and can identify how to support each child’s success in play, learning and everyday life.
• As a key member of the Autism Behavioral Consult (ABC) team, our team supports children throughout hospital admissions and during medical appointments.