Chronic liver disease (CLD) is increasing worldwide (World Health Organisation 2004). The symptoms that affect people with CLD are nonspecific and include joint pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression and cognitive difficulties. In many chronic diseases, such as chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis and cancer, evidence is available to inform the management of these nonspecific symptoms and the role of the occupational therapist. No literature is available, however, on the role of the occupational therapist in clients with CLD. This opinion piece discusses occupational therapy in other chronic conditions and its applicability in the investigation and management of the symptom burden in people with CLD. It concludes that there is a need for occupational therapists to be at the forefront of research in this clinical area, appreciating the symptoms affecting clients with CLD and working towards developing services and interventions appropriate to this client group.
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