Physical Therapists (PTs) provide services that help restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities of patients suffering from injuries or disease. They restore, maintain, and promote overall fitness and health. Their patients include accident victims and individuals with disabling conditions such as low back pain, arthritis, heart disease, fractures, head injuries, and Cerebral Palsy.
Physical Therapists examine patient’s medical histories and then test and measure the patient’s strength, range of motion, balance and coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration, and motor function. They also determine the patient’s ability to be independent and reintegrate into the community or workplace after injury or illness. Next, Physical Therapists develop a plan of care, its purpose, and its anticipated outcome. Physical Therapist Assistants, under the direction and supervision of a Physical Therapist, may be involved in implementing the plan of care with the patient. Physical Therapy Technicians perform routine support tasks, as directed by the Physical Therapist.
Treatment often includes exercise for patients who have been immobilized and lack flexibility, strength, or endurance. Physical Therapists encourage patients to use their own muscles to increase their flexibility and range of motion before finally advancing to other exercises that improve strength, balance, coordination, and endurance. The goal is to improve how an individual functions at work and home.
Physical Therapists also use electrical stimulation, hot packs or cold compresses, and ultrasound to relieve pain and reduce swelling. They may also use traction or deep-tissue massage to relieve pain. Therapists also teach patients to use assistive and adaptive devices, such as crutches, prostheses, and wheelchairs. They also may show patients exercises to do at home to expedite their recovery.
As treatment continues, Physical Therapists document the patient’s progress, conduct periodic examinations, and modify treatments when necessary. Besides tracking the patient’s progress, such documentation identifies areas requiring more or less attention.
Physical Therapists often consult and practice with a variety of other professionals, such as Physicians, Dentists, Nurses, Educators, Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, Speech-Language Pathologists, and Audiologists.