OT won't cure arthritis - she or he is right.  What the occupational
therapist can do is suggest easier ways to do things ie: increase size of
grip, use of friction to make opening and turning things easier.  They can
also help with splinting and orthotic needs ie:  orthotics for shoes, ring
splints for swan necked fingers, splints to give support and wrist for
hands, wrists and ankles etc.

For maintaining range of motion and flexibility you would normally be
referred to a physiotherapist in my neck of the woods.  They would also
recommend any exercises to strengthen.  This would also help against pain.

None of these things are a cure but they do help some people.  Like all
other things though the buck stops at the person needing the help.  Splints
need to be worn regularly, icing or heat needs to be applied regularly, meds
taken properly; exercises done in a daily manner to the level of little to
no residual pain depending on the kind of arthritis and the level of the
flare.

I don't think I have heard what kind of arthritis you have Bonnie or if you
are on anything but voltarin.  Hope the occupational therapist can help your
pain level though.  Don't rule out the fact you might need more help from
others though including a regular anti-inflammatory if you have osteo or a
dmard if you have an inflammatory arthritis such as ra or pa.  Just taking
one anti-inflammatory at night isn't always enough - sometimes it needs to
be taken a couple of times a day at least depending on the doctor's orders.
If volarin is putting you to sleep and you aren't taking it as your doctor
ordered ie: twice a day with meals, or if it isn't working as your doctor
wants you might have to switch medication.  Not all medications have the
same side effects.

Good luck,
Kelly

Your therapist is absolutely correct.

I wonder if there is a regional difference among some of us.

 Your description sounds more like Physical Therapy than
Occupational Therapy.  PT teaches a person stretching and
other physical exercises to maintain ROM and flexability.

OT teaches a person how to maintain a lifestyle as closely
as possible to the norm, usually by furnishing "tools" or
"accessories" to perform daily, routine task.  I obtained
a sockaid/aide, grabber/reacher, long-handled shoehorn
and other tools to help me dress and continue living without
the need for a caregiver.

That is a good part of it but those specific tasks are more related to
physiotherapists.  OT's can help in this area but are more often helpful if
you need a brace of any type or assistance in making tasks less difficult by
designing new ways to do things. They can also suggest devices for making
living with arthritis easier.  They work hand in hand with the physio's

Bruce