Physical Therapy

Other Names : physiotherapy (sometimes abbreviated to PT)
Physical therapy is a healthcare specialty that includes the evaluation, assessment, and treatment of individuals with limitations in functional mobility.

Health Benefits and uses of Physical Therapy are

If you have an injury or illness that results in physical impairment or loss of function, a physical therapist can help. Physical therapists treat people across the entire lifespan. Many 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.

Some common problems that physical therapists evaluate and treat include:

• Stroke
• Fractures
• Spinal cord injury
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Sports injuries
• Amputations
• Arthritis

Physical therapists can treat many other problems besides the ones listed. In general, any problem that causes pain and limits normal movement or function can be evaluated and treated by your physical therapist. Be sure to speak with your doctor if you feel you may need

Techniques

Physical therapists use many different techniques to help you decrease pain, decrease stiffness, improve motion and strength, and improve mobility. Physical agents, such as heat, ice, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation may be used. Manual techniques are often used to help improve mobility.

Therapeutic exercise is often used by physical therapists to help people gain range of motion, increase strength, and improve function. Patient education about a condition or illness is paramount to the practice of physical therapy, and therapists may use charts, models, and diagrams to help you understand your diagnosis and prognosis.