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What is “Physical Therapy?”
- Physical Therapists or Physiotherapists are the movement experts
- The primary goal of Physical Therapy is to prevent or treat movement dysfunction and promote maximal physical function and independence
- Physical Therapists work in a variety of settings including private clinics, hospitals, long term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine clinics and schools
- Physical Therapists are involved in the treatment of many different conditions. Some examples of this are: musculoskeletal conditions ( back pain, arthritis, sports injuries, shoulder pain); neurological conditions ( stroke, nerve damage, brain injuries); cardiovascular conditions ( pneumonia, cardiac rehab, asthma)
- Physical Therapists promote PREVENTION. We want to show you how to prevent injuries before they happen. Also, when you are injured, we can show you how to prevent the problem from coming back.
What can you expect at a physical therapy appointment?
Your first Physical Therapy appointment will take about an hour. A medical history will be taken about your medical conditions, injuries, surgeries, medications and physical activity level. A physical assessment will then be done. This will include a posture assessment, joint mobility, muscle strength testing, nerve testing, flexibility and other screening tests.
Based on the results of the assessment, treatment for your specific needs will then be discussed with you.
Physical Therapy treatment may include the following:
- Manual therapy – can include joint mobilization or manipulation, frictions, stretching, muscle energy techniques
- Exercise Prescription – a home program of stretches and exercises specific for your needs
- Ultrasound, Interferential, TENS, heat or ice
- Ergonomic recommendations for your home or office
- Sport specific training
- Equipment prescription – orthotics, shoe lifts, joint braces, crutches, walkers
- Education on lifting, activity modification, footwear, etc
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