Physical therapists are educated medical professionals who treat many different ailments that their patients suffer from. Some of the most common patients that they treat are someone who has had a stroke, a patient that is recovering from an operation to a teen who has a sports injury. People in all stages of life benefit from physical therapy which plays a significant role in their recovery. The World Confederation for Physical Therapy (http://www.wcpt.org/policy/ps-descriptionPT) defines it as:
“Physical therapy is services provided by physical therapists to individuals and populations to develop, maintain and restore maximum movement and functional ability throughout the lifespan. The service is provided in circumstances where movement and function are threatened by aging, injury, pain, diseases, disorders, conditions or environmental factors and with the understanding that functional movement is central to what it means to be healthy.”
Physical therapist work in different environments as well, not just in hospitals. Other facilities that provide physical therapy treatments are rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, colleges, and schools, assisted living homes, sports medicine centers, some places of employment, and private medical offices.
Not only are physical therapist required to have a Bachelor’s degree, but many have a Master’s Degree as well. Individuals who are enrolled in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program must graduate from a recognized accredited program while attending college. Acquiring a Doctor of Physical Therapy license signifies that the therapist has met all state requirements to practice physical therapy in her state. Physical therapists are highly educated individuals and many hold certifications for a specialty. There are nine specialties in physical therapy.
The list includes:
• Women’s Health
• Cardiovascular and Pulmonary
• Geriatric
• Oncology
• Sports
• Pediatric
• Orthopedic
• Clinical Electrophysiology
• Neurology
For a detailed description of each specialty, please visit the website, Medical News Today (https://wwwmedicalnewstoday.com/articles/160645.php).
Physical therapists know the intricate way the body should move and function correctly, in addition to what techniques she uses to help you achieve your goals during your recovery. There are many reasons why people seek physical therapy. As we already mentioned earlier, some patients are recovering from a health-related condition. But did you know that physical therapy can also help you prevent injuries and even surgery?
Your therapist will show you safe ways for you to move your muscles and body in general to prevent injury. Following a physical therapy program helps you to improve your range of motion, reduces your pain level, strengthen your joints and muscles, improve your balance, as well as improve your quality of life and functional ability.
There are a few methods that therapist use to treat their patients. For example, your physical therapist may use hot therapy before your exercises to help your muscles loosen up while it helps to increase circulation to the injured area. When muscles are loose, they are more relaxed and are less likely to become injured while performing the exercises.
Other kinds of treatments that she may use as part of your treatment program are ultrasound therapy, massage therapy, light therapy, phonophoresis, water therapy, and electrical stimulation.
We have therapists here that hold some of these certifications as well. Are you looking for a therapist to help you manage your cancer pain, or improve your circulatory system? Give us a call to schedule your appointment.