1. Physical Therapy Defined
Physical therapy treats medical issues and health problems that affect your range of motion, your ability to be active and your body to function normally. Physical therapists and their assistants work to increase strength, endurance and flexibility in their patients. Their job is to help decrease pain and improve physical fitness. They give that extra push to get an accident victim or athlete back on their feet. They provide encouragement and support. Physical therapy teaches patients how to avoid issues in the future. Licensed physical therapists have completed a doctoral or master's degree program. Licensed physical therapist assistants attended accredited two-year programs.
2. Massage Away Your Pain
Treatment includes passive and active therapy. Massages, hot and/or cold packs, ultrasounds, hydrotherapy and electrotherapy or electrical muscle stimulation comprise passive therapy. Physical therapists work with medical conditions such as strokes, sports injuries, back pain and spinal chord injuries. They provide treatment for burns and other wounds to the skin and even problems with your breathing. Physical therapists use exercise bands, weights and assistive devices along with stretching and strengthening in active therapy. Patients receive exercise plans to do in between visits.
3. Not Just Hospitals Anymore
The hospital comes to mind when most people think of physical therapy. However, depending on the case, physical therapists see patients at nursing homes, hospices, outpatient clinics and home health agencies. Some schools, offices, sports and fitness facilities and private homes or practices provide physical therapy as well. Find one that is convenient for you.
4. Ask Those in the Know
Ask your doctor or friends and family for suggestions on a therapist. Use the Internet to research providers in your area. Be sure to see a licensed physical therapist. You can verify this information with your health insurance provider before making an appointment. They will not refer you to one, but they will confirm if a physical therapist is a part of their network or not. Double check if you need a referral from your primary care physician and how many visits your insurance policy covers. Let your PCP and physical therapist know your benefit coverage.
5. Developing a Plan for Action
Generally, they do an evaluation first to determine physical fitness, the extent of your injury or condition and what you can tolerate. This includes an examination and a review of any instructions from your physician. The physical therapist formulates a plan and creates a schedule with different target points. They work in conjunction with your physician and give progress reports throughout treatment.
