Physical therapists help patients manage and recover from
debilitating physical conditions that leaves them unable to function
normally. The purpose of physical therapy is to help people who have
conditions that limit their ability to function in their daily
activities. A physical therapist uses many techniques and devices to
assist clients with recovering physical strength and range of motion,
improving mobility of injured body parts, managing pain, improving
posture, and managing physically debilitating conditions. Conditions
patients normally suffer can be the result of an injury, illness, or
chronic disease such as diabetes. Therapeutic equipment can include
ultraviolet and infrared lamps, EMS machines, whirlpool baths, and
ultrasonic machines.
Physical therapy consists of a therapist
assessing a patient's ability to function, monitoring motor function,
improving balance and coordination, increasing muscle strength,
improving range of motion, creating treatment plans for the
rehabilitation facility as well as at home, and recording a patient's
progress. They also instruct patients on how to use therapeutic medical
devices such as canes and crutches, wheelchairs, braces, artificial
limbs...etc.
Many people are not sure if they are in need of
physical therapy. Physical therapy can be used for all neuromuscular or
musculoskeletal dysfunctions. If you have any of the following
conditions, you may require physical therapy: