Physical therapy is a form of rehabilitative exercise performed by trained professionals on those recuperating or regaining strength following an accident, illness, surgery or disease. The role of the therapist is to perform actions on the musculoskeletal system that restore the patient's function, strength and mobility, as well as to increase the patient's independence and quality of life.
Types
The type of physical therapy technique used by a therapist is tailored to the needs of the individual patient. Treatment is different for arthritis versus a torn tendon, for example. Different types of therapy include manual or hands-on, soft tissue mobilization, joint range of motion, heat or cold therapy, electrical stimulation therapy and muscle energy techniques called METs. A therapist decides which approach or combination of therapies best meets the immediate and future goals of the patient and his doctor.
Muscle Tone
Physical therapy focuses on restoration or improvement of muscle tone in the body. Muscle tone is defined as the duration of time it takes a muscle to relax or hold a certain position in response to signals from the brain -- to contract or extend, change position or maintain adequate and proper posture.
Interventions
Physical therapy utilizes a number of interventions to treat dozens of types of injuries, such as fractures, burns, spinal conditions, complications from strokes or heart attack, amputations, and brain or neurological injuries. The therapist uses not only manual therapy, but also engages in therapeutic exercises, training with prosthetics and other assisted mobility devices, as well as functional instruction and training techniques to help restore optimal musculoskeletal function, growth, development and stability.
Stability
One of the main tasks of a therapist in most patient interactions is the restoration of balance and stability. Reducing fall risks may help prevent re-injury and new injuries to patients of all ages, regardless of their condition, but this is especially important for therapists working with geriatric patients. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cautions that approximately 25 percent of elderly individuals experience a moderate to severe injury resulting from a fall.
Training
Physical therapy education and training incorporates a combination of book learning with hands-on clinical instruction from a physical therapy program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education. The student must pass state board examinations and clinical tests, including hands-on skills, in order to receive their degrees, diploma, certification and licensing to practice physical therapy in a number of environments.
