What Do Physical Therapists Do?
Physical therapists (PTs) are healthcare professionals trained in the science of healing and the art of caring. Their expert knowledge in body movement, coupled with hands-on clinical skills, helps patients manage a variety of physical health conditions.
PTs take a holistic approach, viewing the body as an interconnected system rather than focusing on one illness or injury. Studies indicate that physical therapy can be vital to recovery for people suffering from pain or injuries. Working closely with a PT can speed up your recovery process, reduce pain, and regain full function.
For example, low back pain is one of the most common conditions affecting the global population. Research shows that up to 80% of individuals will experience back pain at some point in their life. Physical therapy interventions, such as exercise and manual therapy, effectively manage this condition.
Similarly, osteoarthritis, affecting over 32.5 million adults in the U.S., often results in mobility limitations and reduced quality of life. However, research shows that physical therapy, including exercises focused on strength, flexibility, and balance, can significantly improve function and reduce pain.
Stroke is another prevalent condition that significantly impacts functional abilities, affecting nearly 800,000 people in the U.S. annually. Fortunately, with the help of physical therapy interventions like neuro-rehabilitation, most stroke survivors can regain substantial independence.
At PT Unlimited, we’re committed to helping you regain your independence and get back to the activities you love. Our expert physical therapists use evidence-based practices to provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and embark on your journey to recovery!
Anticipate A Path To Improved Health:
Your Guide To Physical Therapy Visits At PT Unlimited
Stepping into a physical therapy office for the first time is like exploring a new territory. It’s a journey you’re about to embark upon, filled with various techniques and strategies, all aimed at restoring your physical well-being. Let’s break down the process to help you understand what to expect.
The first step on your road to recovery involves a comprehensive evaluation by our highly trained physical therapists. This assessment goes beyond surface-level symptoms, delving deep into the root cause of your discomfort.
Our experts take time to understand your medical history and use specialized testing tools to examine your posture, joint motion, muscle strength, and overall mobility. This comprehensive approach ensures a tailor-made recovery plan that addresses your unique needs.
Our therapists then employ a host of evidence-based techniques, here are some of the most common strategies you can expect:
- Manual Therapy: This hands-on approach helps to decrease pain, improve movement and induce relaxation. Techniques can include soft tissue work (massaging muscles and tissues) and mobilization/manipulation of joints.
- Therapeutic Exercise: These are specific exercise sets recommended to improve the function and performance of your body parts affected by injury or illness. The exercises could range from stretching for enhanced flexibility and strengthening workouts to balance and coordination tasks.
- Neuromuscular Re-education: This strategy aims to restore normal body movement by re-training your nervous system and muscles to work together. It involves balance tasks, movement techniques, and muscle-retraining exercises.
- Modalities: Physical therapists often use tools such as heat, cold, electricity, or ultrasound to stimulate your body’s natural healing process, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
Each technique is tailored to ensure comfort and maximized recovery potential. We don’t only heal but empower you with knowledge and tools to maintain your improved health state.