Physiotherapy can help patients reduce pain and improve or restore mobility - in many cases without expensive surgery and often reducing the need for long-term use of prescription medications and their side effects. Physical therapists can teach patients how to prevent or manage their condition so that they will achieve long-term health benefits. PTs examine each individual and develop a plan, using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. In addition, PTs work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness- and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles. Physical therapists provide care for people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health agencies and nursing homes. Physical therapists use a variety of treatment modalities and techniques to help you move better and feel better; treatment is very personalized. Choosing physical therapy has been shown to help you recover quickly and safely, and it can save you money due to decreased overall healthcare costs.
Do I Need Physical Therapy?
How do you know if you require the skilled services of a physical therapist? If you have an injury or illness that results in pain, physical impairment, or limited normal movement/loss of function, a physical therapist can help. Physical therapists treat people across the entire lifespan. Many PTs specialize in treating a certain population, like children, the elderly, or athletes. Regardless of age, if you have impaired mobility, a physical therapy evaluation may be warranted to offer treatment and a strategy to improve function.
Know, however, that physical therapists can treat many other problems besides the ones listed. Be sure to speak with your doctor if you feel you may benefit from this treatment. When an injury or illness occurs that limits your ability to move about safely or normally, a referral to a physical therapist may be made. Physical therapists work closely with patients, doctors, and family members to ensure safe and rapid return to maximal function.
Physical therapists can also help you prevent injury or loss of functional mobility. Your PT can analyze your movements before you are injured and offer strategies to help keep you healthy and moving well. Some physical therapists work with athletes to help keep them on the playing field and out of the rehab clinic, for example.
Do I Get My Physical Therapy at my Home?
Physical therapists work in a variety of different settings. Anywhere you may encounter a person who may be having difficulty with normal mobility is where you may find a physical therapist.
WE AT Getacare PROVIDE HOME BASED PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT
Evaluation By a Physical Therapist
When you first visit a physical therapist, he or she will evaluate and assess your overall condition. He or she may take specific measurements to gather information about your illness or injury. Impairments typically measured may include:
- Strength
- Range of motion
- Flexibility
- Balance
- Joint mobility
- Neurological function
- Pain
- Cardiac function
- Pulmonary function
- Overall functional mobility
After gathering information about your injury or illness, your PT will make a prognosis of your condition and can offer strategies to help you move better and feel better. He or she will discuss your goals for physical therapy and work with you to develop a treatment plan for your rehab.
A Word From Getacare
It's natural to feel some anxiety when first going to physical therapy. What will happen? Will therapy hurt? These feelings typically quickly go away once you meet your physical therapist and get working on your rehab goals. By understanding what your physical therapist can do to help you, you can have realistic expectations about your rehab and a positive outcome with your physical therapy experience.
