What Can Physical Therapy Help With?

The world of physical therapy is much larger than most people realize. What can physical therapy help with? Physical therapy is used to treat a wide variety of conditions.  From injuries to chronic pain, physical therapists are trained to identify, diagnose, and treat physical ailments.  Individualized treatment plans are developed to improve movement, function, and overall quality of life.

As a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option, physical therapy is increasingly being seen as a reliable and effective form of care for many different types of conditions. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of physical therapy and the common conditions treated.

What are the Benefits of Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is a great option for many individuals who suffer from pain, discomfort, or physical limitations. One of the main benefits of physical therapy is that it can help to reduce pain without the need for medications or surgery. Physical therapy can also help to improve range of motion, flexibility, functional mobility, and strength.

Additionally, physical therapy can be used as an effective form of rehabilitation following injury or surgery and can even help to prevent further injury or disability. A physical therapist can develop a customized treatment plan that is tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient.

Many people find that physical therapy provides a safe, drug-free alternative for managing pain and improving mobility. Even those who are not in pain or have a physical limitation can benefit from physical therapy as it is also great for improving overall fitness, balance, and strength.

Common Conditions Treated with Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is effective in treating many types of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, neurological disorders, and chronic pain. Listed below are three of the most common conditions treated by physical therapists:

Musculoskeletal Injuries:

A variety of musculoskeletal injuries, such as sprains and strains, can effectively be treated with physical therapy. Physical therapists can use a combination of stretching exercises, strength training, and manual therapy to help reduce pain and improve mobility.

This type of treatment can also help to decrease the risk of re-injury. Dislocations, fractures, and ligament or muscle tears can also be treated with physical therapy. There are a variety of specialized modalities that may be used, such as electrical stimulation or ultrasound, to help reduce pain and improve healing.

While some of these conditions may require surgery, physical therapy can often be used in conjunction with surgery to help with the rehabilitation process.

Neurological Disorders:

Neurological disorders, such as stroke and Parkinson’s disease, can also be treated with physical therapy. Physical therapists specialize in restoring movement and function when it has been impaired due to neurological conditions.

Treatments that may be used to treat neurological conditions include balance and gait training, strengthening and coordination exercises, and stretching. These treatments can help to improve mobility, independence, and overall quality of life for individuals with neurological conditions.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a neurological condition, physical therapy may be recommended as part of the treatment plan.

Chronic Pain

Physical therapy can be used to effectively manage chronic pain. Physical therapists use a variety of treatments and modalities, such as manual therapy techniques and heat therapy and massage, to help reduce pain and improve mobility.

They can also provide patients with exercises that are specifically designed to help strengthen muscles, improve posture, and reduce strain on joints. In addition to helping to manage pain, physical therapy can also help to reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for those with chronic conditions.

Treatments used in Physical Therapy

There are a variety of types of physical therapy that can be used to treat different conditions. Some of the most common types include:

Manual Therapy

This type of therapy involves the use of hands-on techniques to help improve joint range of motion, reduce pain, and restore function. Examples of manual techniques include joint and soft mobilization.

A physical therapist can also use stretching and strengthening exercises to help improve mobility and reduce pain. Be sure to discuss with your physical therapist which type of manual therapy is best suited for your condition.

Electrical Stimulation

Electrical stimulation uses electrical current to stimulate muscles and reduce pain. This type of therapy can be used to help improve muscle coordination and strength, as well as decrease swelling in the area.

Electrical stimulation can also be used to help reduce muscle spasms and improve circulation. It is important to note that electrical stimulation should only be used under the direction of a physical therapist, as it can cause serious injury if not used correctly.

Aquatic Therapy

Aquatic therapy utilizes the buoyancy of water to help reduce pain, improve range of motion, and restore function. This type of therapy is often beneficial for those who are unable to participate in traditional land-based exercises due to pain or limited range of motion. Aquatic therapy can also be used to improve balance, coordination, and flexibility.

Can You Benefit from Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy can be a great way to improve your physical well-being and quality of life. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or managing a chronic condition, there are a variety of treatments that physical therapy can offer to help reduce pain and improve mobility.

Be sure to discuss all your treatment options with your doctor or physical therapist to determine which type of therapy is best for you. With the help of physical therapy, you can start feeling better and living your life to the fullest!   Contact Lifeline Physical Therapy at 412-646-1959 to schedule your appointment today.

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