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Physical therapy is a form of rehabilitation that helps in the diagnosis and treatment of mobility disorders, chronic and acute illnesses, and injuries. It is commonly regarded as a conservative method of treating various musculoskeletal issues. Physical therapists are medical specialists who are responsible for delivering specialised methods and treatments to increase the range of motion, lessen pain, and enhance physical function. The reports from the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) state that a physical therapist is a qualified and licensed medical professional with experience in identifying physical abnormalities, regaining mobility and function, maintaining function, and encouraging physical activity and appropriate function.
Physical therapy aims to enhance or re-establish a person's mobility, strength, range of motion, overall functioning, and quality of life. Additionally, it seeks to reduce suffering and prevent the chances of any other injuries. Physical therapies are usually carried out in different venues, including schools, assisted living facilities, hospitals, rehab centres, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and occupational settings.
What is expected during physical therapy?
A physical therapist plays a crucial role in assisting patients throughout the healing process, from initial diagnosis to recovery and prevention. Physical therapy can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other medical procedures and is suitable for people of all ages with related conditions. Patients may be referred to physical therapy by their physicians or seek it out independently.
According to the World Confederation for Physical Therapy, a physical therapist is trained to:
- Perform a thorough physical examination and assess a person's performance, flexibility, muscle and joint motion, and movement.
- Offer a clinical diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment plan with both short-term and long-term goals.
- Administer physical therapy interventions and treatments.
- Recommend self-management techniques that patients can practice at home.
In addition to physical manipulation, at Manipal Hospitals Saltlake, physical therapy treatments may include the following therapies:
- Iontophoresis: This involves applying an electrical current to deliver certain medications, like topical steroids, to reduce inflammation.
- Electrical stimulation (e-stim): There are two types -Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for pain reduction and Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) to enhance muscle activation.
- Heat, moist heat, and cold therapy: These therapies offer benefits for various health conditions.
- Light therapy: Specialised lights and lasers are used to address specific medical conditions.
Who can benefit from physical therapy?
Physical therapies help in the treatment of different medical conditions, depending on their specialities. Some of the common medical conditions that can benefit from this type of treatment include:
- Cardiopulmonary disorders such as post-myocardial infarction (MI), cystic fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Hand therapy for conditions including carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger
- Musculoskeletal issues, such as back pain, rotator cuff injuries, and TMJ disorders
- Neurological diseases, including traumatic brain traumas, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and vestibular dysfunction
- Conditions affecting children such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and developmental delays
- Injuries occurring due to sports-related activities, including concussions and tennis elbow
- Women’s health and pelvic floor abnormalities, including urinary incontinence and lymphedema
- Other health conditions include burns, wound care, and diabetic ulcers.
Benefits of Physical Therapy:
Physical therapy offers the following advantages to patients, depending on the cause of treatment and the above-mentioned health issues:
- Pain management with minimal need for painkillers
- Avoiding surgery
- Improved movement and mobility
- Recovering after an accident or trauma
- Recovery from paralysis or a stroke
- Preventing falls
- Improved balance
- Handling age-related medical issues.
The role of the sports therapist also includes assisting athletes in improving their performance by strengthening particular muscles and body components. Any physical therapist is responsible for informing patients about the advantages that are unique to their medical histories and the treatments they need.
How can physical therapy help individuals?
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Pain Reduction or Elimination
Physical therapy can help individuals with chronic pain relief through therapeutic exercises. A physical therapist uses methods to soften tissue, increase joint mobility, and restore muscular function. There will also be other pain-relieving techniques used, such as ultrasounds, taping, electrical stimulation, and dry needling.
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Restoring Mobility
Physical therapy is the best course of action to help individuals stand up, walk, and balance again. By doing stretches and strengthening exercises, they will be able to move more freely while regaining strength and balance.
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Recovering from any Injury
Physical therapy is an excellent option to fully recover from a sports injury. One can communicate with physical therapists who offer particular healing therapies to improve their strength. Exercises are a part of therapy to help regain physical function and become athletically fit.
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Preventing any Negative Impact of Ageing
Physical therapy is an effective treatment option if someone has problems while they are ageing. As they get older, osteoporosis, arthritis, and chronic joint pain can all get worse and hurt the bones, muscles, and joints more. Elderly patients should see a physical therapist frequently for joint discomfort and other medical problems.
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Addressing further Health Issues
Medical diseases like diabetes, and pulmonary, and cardiovascular issues can be treated by a physical therapist. A licensed physical therapist can also collaborate with your doctor to help you feel better.
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