PHYSICAL THERAPY
WHAT IS PHYSICAL THERAPY?
Physical therapy is a health care specialty concerned with the treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system and its interaction with physical movement. There are many specialty areas in the field of physical therapy.
Orthopedic physical therapists diagnose, manage, and treat disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal system as well as rehabilitate patients post orthopedic surgery. Orthopedic physical therapists are trained in the treatment of postoperative joints, acute sports injuries, arthritis, and amputations, just to name a few.
WHAT IS PHYSICAL THERAPY LIKE?
Joint mobilizations, strength training, hot/cold packs, and electrical stimulation are modalities often used in physical therapy in the orthopedic setting. Those who have suffered injury or disease affecting the muscles, bones, ligaments, or tendons of the body will benefit from assessment by a physical therapist specialized in orthopedics.
Setting goals is the best way to achieve a successful rehabilitation outcome. When starting physical therapy, you must think what is it that you want to accomplish at the end of your program. Goals are often very individualized, but then again so is the rehabilitation process. Once you have set your goals, it is important to sit down with your therapist on the first visit and discuss them together.