Physical therapists are experts in movement and function. The primary goal of physical therapy is to treat people who have suffered injury or illness and maximize function. Physical therapists do this by developing specialized treatment programs to help restore mobility, reduce pain, increase fitness levels, prevent injury, or slow the progression of irreversible medical conditions.
To achieve these goals physical therapists employ the following interventions:
- Therapeutic Exercise including ROM, strength training, balance and coordination.
- Manual Therapy including joint mobilization and elements of massage/soft tissue mobilization.
- Physical Agents: heat, cold, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, infrared and traction.
- Patient Education including postural advice, ergonomic instruction, home exercise, energy conservation, fitness information and more...
Frequently Asked Questions
What diagnoses are treated by physical therapy?
Our office primarily treats general orthopaedic conditions/injuries, including the following:
- Sprains/Strains, Fractures, Nerve Entrapments
- Post-operative Rehabilitation
- Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
- Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
- Back and Neck Pain
- Posture Problems (including scoliosis)
- Rehabilitation after a Serious Injury (e.g., work-related, auto accidents, sports)
- Balance or Coordination Problems / Fall Prevention
- Post-cancer Conditioning/Rehabilitation
- Prenatal and Post-partum Issues (low back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome)
How often should I refer a patient (i.e., what frequency and duration is appropriate for therapy care)?
In general, most patients with musculoskeletal conditions attend physical therapy 2-3x/week on non- consecutive days. Length or duration of care is dependent on many variables including patient age, diagnosis, fitness level, severity of injury, etc. If you are unsure of the most appropriate frequency and duration, the physical therapist can make a recommendation based on their evaluation findings.
What should I write on the physical therapy prescription?
We require physicians to list a diagnosis, as well as any recommendations and/or precautions regarding the patient's condition. The therapist will complete an evaluation and forward a copy of the report to the physician office.
If you ever have questions regarding appropriate referral to physical therapy, please do not hesitate to contact one of our therapists.