Physical therapy is a series of treatments designed to restore, maintain, and promote optimal physical function. By physical function we mean the ability to move freely and use our limbs and joints. Physical therapists in the clinical setting can also specialize in a many different fields, such as cardiovascular and pulmonary physical therapy, which will help patients recover from cardiac or pulmonary surgery. After all, we all need to pump blood and breath, and after surgery it takes a while for these functions to work properly. The physical therapist will use treatments and exercises to get things working normally again.
Other clinical physical therapy is integumentary which helps people with skin disorders or burn patients to regain proper movement and function. There are also physical therapists who specialize in helping patients with neurological disorders. As well as specialists for geriatric patients, pediatric patients, and pretty much anyone in a hospital setting who has limited mobility and needs to regain normal function.
The most common type of physical therapy is orthopedic physical therapy. This is where the therapist treats patients for injuries, sprains, and arthritis. Many people who are injured during work or play will see this type of physical therapist. The orthopedic therapist has many tools for muscle rehab. For instance, if you have a sprain, or a knee, or shoulder injury, the therapist will evaluate your injury and then start with treatments such as anti-inflammatory drugs, icing, electrotherapy, massage, or light exercises. The therapist will continue to monitor the condition and recommend appropriate treatments as necessary.
Another common form of physical therapy is sports therapy. This usually consists of keeping athletes functioning at their top level. Treatments include, icing, wrapping, and massage. Whatever it takes to keep overused and fatigued muscles and tendons from getting injured and needing further medical treatment. Physical therapy is the process of rehabbing and keeping the body functioning properly. Movement and exercise are a major part of the rehab process. Having a good physical therapist can really make a difference when it comes to regaining full function of the injured area.
