Physical therapy is all about addressing specific rehabilitation needs. First, we identify the source of limitation or pain, while taking the time to educate you on the diagnosis, prognosis, and plan. Then we develop a customized treatment program where we can work together to restore as much of your function as possible.

Who benefits from physical therapy?

To put it simply – anyone suffering from pain or limitations in their function. Maybe your lower back hurts. Or the bottom of your feet always seems to bother you. Almost all injuries, no matter the cause – household, recreational, overuse – can be addressed through a physical therapy program. Here are some specific cases where a PT can be especially useful.

• Post-operative patients who need to regain muscle strength and coordination
• Athletes who are recovering from injuries (as well as those trying to prevent injury)
• Accident victims of car crashes, job-related mishaps, etc.
• Employees who are returning to work after an injury
• People with arthritis who seek pain relief and increased joint motion
• Cancer patients who need to increase strength and function
• Pregnant women who develop back pain and other muscular or joint problems due to pregnancy

What does a physical therapist do?

Much like your other doctors, a physical therapist is a skilled, licensed healthcare professional. In fact, physical therapy is now a 6-year Doctorate program. A physical therapist’s focus and expertise is on your body’s movement systems. Our goal is to restore or maintain your strength, mobility and function. We do so by using what’s called a dynamic approach, which combines functional exercise and manual techniques. If you want to get technical, here are some of the methods we may use in your treatment after a thorough assessment of your condition.

• Guided therapeutic activities and exercises
• Re-education of muscle
• Manual therapies: mobilization of the joints and soft tissues
• Individualized home exercise program
• Reconditioning programs
• Modalities to reduce pain and/or swelling when necessary

We also know that some rehabilitation plans call for unique approaches. That's why we have physical therapists who offer a multitude of specialty services at select locations.

Want to learn more about physical therapy?

Visit the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) for a wealth of information about how physical therapy can help with many physical problems.