You have a dull ache in your joints that just won’t go away, sprained your ankle playing soccer, or just had surgery; these are some examples of conditions that could benefit from Physical Therapy. Since there are so many different conditions that are seen in Physical Therapy, it is often hard to define.
For example, orthopedic Physical Therapy focuses on the diagnosing and treatment of the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system includes any area within your body that gives you the ability to move, including:
- Bones
- Muscles
- Cartilage
- Ligaments
- Tendons
- Connective tissues
- Joints
So you may ask: what is Physical Therapy?
Physical Therapy is a type of rehabilitative medicine that is used to treat disease, injury or deformity. Physical therapists work with patients to reach their goals of reducing pain, improving flexibility and restoring or improving mobility. Physical therapy is also used to improve the overall health of the patient by prevention, wellness and disease management.
How is that accomplished? Physical therapists use varied forms of modalities, exercise and education.
Some important things to keep in mind:
What is a Physical Therapist’s role?
According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA):
Physical Therapists (PTs) are health care professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to the very oldest, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.
PTs examine each individual and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. In addition, PTs work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness- and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.
Who needs Physical Therapy?
- Patients after orthopedic surgery
- Patients lacking mobility or function
- Patients with pain and disability
How do you access a Physical Therapist?
- There are two ways: physician’s referral or direct access. Direct access is a process by which a physical therapist is able to evaluate and treat patients without a physician referral for acute non-surgical injuries, aches, or pains.
What are the most common treatments?
- Exercise to improve strength, endurance, balance and flexibility
- Modalities which include: Hot packs, Ice, Electrical Stimulation and Ultrasound
- Gait training to assist with ambulation and mobility using an assistive device
- Education to prevent further disability and improve wellness
To learn more about the Physical Therapy options available to you, visit https://hss.edu/rehabilitation.asp.
Reviewed on August 3, 2018.
Danielle Edwards is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and the Manager of Acute Care Orthopedic Rehabilitation at Hospital for Special Surgery.
