 | Frequently Asked Questions |
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- What is Physical Therapy?
Physical Therapy is about helping people.
Physical Therapy is also about helping people help themselves!
Physical Therapy aims to restore movement and function, relieve pain, and prevent further injury.
Physical Therapy is the evaluation and treatment of numerous physical conditions of all age groups.
Physical Therapy treats people with musculoskeletal disorders such as back and neck strains or knee injuries; neurological deficits such as stroke patients or cerebral palsy children, and skin disorders such as wounds, burns or diabetic foot ulcers.
Physical Therapy is provided in the hospital, for outpatients, in schools, in the home, and in nursing homes.
Physical Therapy is about teaching people about their body, their disorder, and their health.
Physical Therapy helps people lead more active and independent lives.
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- What does a Physical Therapist do?
A Physical Therapist will perform an evaluation of your problem or difficulty. This includes taking a history of a problem and then evaluating your problem by performing tests and measures to assess the problem. These tests include muscle strength tests, joint motion tests, sensory and neurological tests, coordination tests, balance tests, observation, palpation, flexibility tests, postural screening, movement analysis, and special tests designed for a particular problem. Also includes past medical history.
A Physical Therapist will then develop a treatment plan and goals and then administer the appropriate treatment to aid in recovery of a problem or dysfunction.
Physical Therapy treatments include patient education to teach you how deal with a current problem and how to prevent this problem from recurring in the future.
Physical Therapy provides "hands on techniques" like massage or joint mobilization skills to restore joint motion or increase soft tissue flexibility.
Physical Therapy aids in postural reeducation and movement awareness. Therapeutic exercise instructions will help restore strength, movement, balance, or coordination as a guide towards full functional recovery.
Physical Therapy participates in functional training for work-related issues, and home activities, and recreational or sports interests.
Physical Therapy teaches basic mobility skills such as learning to move and get out of bed, transferring to a chair, walking with crutches or special devices on stairs or varied terrain.
Physical Therapy can assist one in meeting special equipment needs such as wheelchairs or other adaptive equipment to improve function and independence.
Physical Therapy often involves the use of modalities which include properties of heat, cold, air, light, water, electricity, ultrasound, and traction. These modalities are used to help decrease pain and increase movement and function.
Examples of Physical Therapy modalities are: Hotpacks, Coldpacks, Whirlpools, TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation), Ultrasound, Traction, Electrical Stimulation, Intermittent Compression Pumps, and Myofascial Release. This list is not all inclusive but should give you an idea of some of the modalities that are available.
A Physical Therapist will monitor your progress and adjust treatments and treatment goals as appropriate.
A Physical Therapist will consult with other health professionals to facilitate your recovery.
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- When should you see a Physical Therapist?
You should see a physical therapist when: you have suffered an injury--to decrease pain and restore movement and function.
Ask your Doctor for a referral to physical therapy.
After surgery--to restore strength, range of motion, balance and function.
If your illness or injury interferes with your daily normal tasks and your ability to function or if your child has had birth defects before accidents or injuries occur to prevent difficulties in the future.
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- What should I wear to Physical Therapy?
You should wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. If you have a knee or ankle injury, shorts or pants that can be easily fitted above the injury site. If you have a back or shoulder injury, you may be asked to change out of your shirt into a gown for evaluation and treatment purposes.
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- What should I bring to Physical Therapy?
On your first visit, please bring your insurance card and the prescription from your doctor. A prescription is used to instruct the therapist for your injury, as well as it serves as documentation for your insurance carrier. Most plans do require updated prescriptions monthly for continued care. If you have a copay, it will be collected at time of service. No food or drink is allowed in the treatment area.
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