Physical Therapy Specialist

What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy is a type of orthopaedic treatment that combines stretches, strengthening exercises, and manual therapy to relieve pain, improve your quality of life, and help you function better.

In addition, physical therapy provides a safe and effective alternative to surgery. That means you can return to your favorite activities, work, and exercise much quicker.

What issues can benefit from physical therapy?

The expert providers at Orthopaedic Associates, Inc, use physical therapy to treat a variety of issues that affect the musculoskeletal system, including:

• Acute and chronic pain
• Limited mobility
• Sports injuries
• Work injuries
• Chronic illnesses 
• Congenital issues like scoliosis and kyphosis 

You might also benefit from physical therapy if you need orthopaedic surgery. Following an operation, physical therapy can speed up your body’s natural healing process and reduce the risk of complications. 

What does physical therapy involve?

At Orthopaedic Associates, Inc, a physical therapy consultation begins with a review of your medical history and a discussion of your symptoms, including when they started, their severity, and if any activities, like going to work, makes them worse.

Your provider also asks questions about your lifestyle, including how well you sleep, if your pain interferes with your ability to work, and if you regularly drink alcohol or smoke. 

Next, they conduct a complete physical exam. During the physical, your provider assesses how well you can move around, bend, reach, and grasp. They also observe your gait and posture and have you do a series of easy exercises to check your strength and range of motion.

Your provider might also order X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI to rule out more serious issues, like a fracture, a torn muscle, or a dislocated joint.

After making a diagnosis, your provider develops a physical therapy treatment plan that aligns with your needs.

What treatments does physical therapy offer?

The providers at Orthopaedic Associates, Inc, use various methodologies when developing physical therapy treatment plans. They might recommend:

• At-home strengthening exercises and stretches
• Massage
• Hot or cold therapy
• Acupuncture
• Ultrasound therapy
• Occupational therapy

You might also benefit from using a mobility device like a walker or a cane. Your provider can teach you how to use one and recommend exercises to improve your balance. 

To see if you’re a candidate for physical therapy, make an appointment at Orthopaedic Associates, Inc, by calling the nearest office or using the online booking feature today.