A rotation I’ve unexpectedly come to enjoy at the hospital is rehabilitation therapy. I’ve gotten to experience three types of rehabilitation therapies: physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

The more well-known type of therapy is physical therapy. Physical therapy is focused on helping patients regain mobility and strength after injuries or surgeries. It is more targeted toward the lower extremities. At the hospital, I watched physical therapists work with patients using strength training exercises such as leg lifts, resistance band workouts, and walking drills. I was also able to help ambulate, or practice walking patients.

Occupational therapy, on the other hand, helps patients regain the skills needed for daily living. It focuses more on the upper extremities and fine motor skills. I watched occupational therapists assist patients with tasks like getting dressed, using adaptive tools, and taking showers. One particularly interesting tool simulated getting into a car, allowing patients to practice that action before doing it in real life.

The one I found the most interesting was speech therapy. Speech therapy is for patients who need help with swallowing, cognitive function, and communication. I observed a speech therapist administer a series of swallowing and cognitive tests to patients to evaluate their speech clarity and processing speed. They repeated these tests every few days to monitor any changes in the patient’s cognitive function and swallowing ability.

I really enjoyed this rotation, particularly because of the direct patient interaction and the stories I got to hear from them. Talking to patients made me realize how much therapy can impact not only their physical recovery but also their confidence and independence. It was rewarding to see how these small but consistent improvements made a difference in their lives.