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Physical Therapy (PT), also known
as physiotherapy, was introduced to the United States following
WWI (1914) to rehabilitate soldiers returning from the war.
The profession has grown to include many subspecialties such
as orthopaedic, sports, chronic pain syndrome, ergonomic modification,
and industrial rehabilitation for injured workers.
What is physical therapy?
PT combines passive modalities
with therapeutic exercise to rehabilitate the spine and other
parts of the body. Passive modalities include heat/cold therapy,
ultrasound, electrical stimulation, massage, and joint mobilization.
These modalities are not the sole treatment, but supplement
therapeutic exercise. Active therapy, or therapeutic exercise
includes stretching, strengthening, and postural modification
to rehabilitate the spine and prevent re-injury.
What is the purpose of PT?
The purpose of physical therapy
is to help the patient return to active life as quickly as possible.
Therapy strives to reduce pain, increase flexibility, range
of motion, and function, build strength, and correct posture.
Physical therapy is often prescribed
for patients following spine surgery, to treat soft tissue trauma,
nerve inflammation/injury, muscle spasms, fractures, arthritis,
and many other problems.
Patient education is an important
component in physical therapy. Patients learn how their spine
works, proper body mechanics, common disorders and their causes,
benefits of good posture, importance of physical fitness and
its relationship to injury and disease prevention.
Who are Physical Therapists?
Physical Therapists are licensed
health care professionals. Prior to practicing they must obtain
either a Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Physical Therapy and
pass an examination to be licensed. Their didactic and clinical
training includes (but is not limited to) anatomy, Kinesiology
(study of movement), study of disease and injury, healing and
recovery, and a myriad of therapeutic treatment techniques.
Therapists practice in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab
centers, home healthcare agencies (serving homebound patients),
and private practice.
What does the Physical Therapist
do?
The physical therapist talks to
the patient and evaluates their condition by testing joint motion,
muscle strength, cardiovascular function, reflexes, and functional
skills. If a physician referred the patient, the therapist will
review the prescription along with the patient's records. After
necessary information has been gathered, the physical therapist
designs a treatment plan to fit the patient's needs and goals.
The therapist and patient will work together as a team toward
wellness.
Is physical therapy painful?
Sometimes PT is uncomfortable
or painful. However, the therapist has treatments available
that can help minimize pain. As muscles are stretched and exercised,
it is only natural to experience some soreness. As therapy progresses,
range of motion increases as does strength and soreness diminishes.
In general, patients feel better following therapy and look
forward to the next session.
How long does a therapy session
last?
The amount of time needed depends
on the type of therapy involved. For example, it may take one
patient longer to complete their therapeutic exercises than
another. Also, as a patient makes progress, their treatment
plan is adjusted.
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