Physical Therapy

Physical therapy, also called physiotherapy, is a healthcare profession that uses exercises, manual therapy, education, and other techniques to help restore movement, reduce pain, and improve function. Physical therapists are licensed healthcare professionals who work with people of all ages.

Physical therapy is used to treat many conditions, from acute injuries to chronic diseases. It can help people recover from surgery, manage pain, improve mobility, prevent injuries, and maintain function. It's often a key component of treatment plans for various health conditions.

Physical therapy is used for:

Injuries:

• Sports injuries
• Work-related injuries
• Accidents
• Fractures
• Sprains and strains

Surgery Recovery:

• Joint replacement
• Back surgery
• Cardiac surgery
• Other surgeries

Chronic Conditions:

• Arthritis
• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic pain

Neurological Conditions:

• Stroke
• Parkinson's disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Spinal cord injuries

Other Conditions:

• Balance problems
• Falls prevention
• Mobility issues
• Posture problems
• Breathing problems

Initial Evaluation:

1. Medical History: Discussion of your condition
2. Physical Examination: Assessment of movement, strength, flexibility
3. Goal Setting: Establishing treatment goals
4. Treatment Plan: Developing personalized plan
5. Education: Learning about your condition

Treatment Sessions:

• Usually 30-60 minutes
• Frequency varies (1-3 times per week, typically)
• Duration varies (weeks to months)
• Combination of techniques

Common Techniques:

• Exercises: Strengthening, stretching, range of motion
• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, massage
• Modalities: Heat, cold, ultrasound, electrical stimulation
• Education: Posture, body mechanics, prevention
• Assistive Devices: Canes, walkers, braces

Physical Benefits:

• Reduced pain
• Improved strength
• Better flexibility
• Improved balance
• Better mobility
• Faster recovery

Functional Benefits:

• Improved ability to perform daily activities
• Return to work or sports
• Independence
• Quality of life improvement

Prevention:

• Prevent future injuries
• Maintain function
• Prevent falls
• Slow disease progression

• Need for physical therapy referral
• Pain or injury not improving
• Difficulty with daily activities
• After surgery
• Chronic pain or mobility issues
• Questions about physical therapy

• Pain limiting activities
• Difficulty moving
• After injury
• After surgery
• Balance problems
• Chronic conditions affecting movement

• Following home exercise program
• Maintaining gains from therapy
• No new concerns
• Regular exercise program

Assessment:

• Evaluation of your condition
• Testing strength, flexibility, range of motion
• Identifying problems
• Setting goals

Treatment:

• Personalized exercises
• Manual techniques
• Modalities as needed
• Education and training
• Progress monitoring

Home Program:

• Exercises to do at home
• Important for progress
• Usually given after sessions
• Should be done regularly

Progress Tracking:

• Regular reassessment
• Adjustments to program
• Goal achievement
• Discharge planning

Orthopedic:

• Musculoskeletal conditions
• Injuries
• Joint problems
• Most common type

Neurological:

• Stroke, brain injury
• Spinal cord injury
• Neurological diseases
• Balance and coordination

Cardiopulmonary:

• Heart conditions
• Lung conditions
• Breathing problems
• Endurance training

Pediatric:

• Children with developmental delays
• Birth defects
• Injuries
• Specialized for children

Geriatric:

• Older adults
• Falls prevention
• Mobility
• Specialized for aging

Before First Visit:

• Bring list of medications
• Bring medical records if available
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Bring insurance information
• Know your goals

During Treatment:

• Follow therapist's instructions
• Do home exercises
• Communicate about pain or concerns
• Ask questions
• Be patient with progress

Physical therapy is generally very safe:

• Licensed professionals
• Evidence-based techniques
• Individualized care
• Progress monitored

Important:

• Communicate about pain
• Report new symptoms
• Follow instructions
• Don't push through severe pain
• Ask questions

Prevent Need for Physical Therapy:

• Regular exercise
• Proper technique in activities
• Maintain healthy weight
• Good posture
• Injury prevention
• Regular check-ups

It varies widely depending on the condition. Some people need just a few sessions, others need weeks or months. Your therapist will discuss expected duration.

Some discomfort is normal, especially when starting. However, you should communicate with your therapist about pain. Therapy shouldn't cause severe pain.

It depends on your location and insurance. Some places allow direct access, others require a doctor's referral. Check with your insurance and local regulations.

While you'll have a home exercise program, in-person therapy is usually important, especially initially. Your therapist will guide you on what to do at home.

Most insurance plans cover physical therapy, but coverage varies. Check with your insurance company about coverage, copays, and limits on number of visits.