Group Rehabilitation for POTS with Emily Rich, OT (Ep 106)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein interviews occupational therapist Emily Rich, who specializes in managing POTS and EDS, about the benefits of occupational therapy for individuals with POTS. Emily discusses her personal experience with POTS and the innovative research she is conducting on group rehabilitation programs that incorporate occupational and physical therapy alongside mindfulness for symptom management. A significant focus was placed on fatigue management strategies like pacing and energy conservation, as well as the effective use of adaptive tools and compression garments for symptom relief. Emily also shared practical insights into enhancing daily life activities for individuals with these conditions, emphasizing a holistic management approach that includes lifestyle changes and psychological support. Additionally, Emily is developing resources for wider dissemination of these strategies, aiming to improve access to effective care for POTS patients beyond specialized centers. Emily provides educational resources for both patients and clinicians, promoting a collaborative approach to care.