What is physical therapy?
Physical therapy is a holistic treatment that includes therapeutic exercises and stretches that speed up healing and restore proper musculoskeletal functioning. Physical therapy can consist of:
- Therapeutic stretching
- Exercise therapy
- Massage therapy
- Hot and cold treatment
- Electrical stimulation
Physical therapy challenges your body’s musculoskeletal system, allowing it to repair tissues that are deformed, diseased, or injured.
What are the benefits of physical therapy?
The many benefits associated with physical therapy offered by the Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson include:
- Faster healing
- Pain reduction
- Increased strength
- Improved flexibility
- Better joint mobilization
- Lower risk of further injuries
Physical therapy is a valuable holistic tool that orthopedists and other doctors use to rehabilitate injured patients and those recovering from orthopedic surgery.
Why might I need physical therapy?
Your provider could recommend that you undergo physical therapy if you have a sports injury, arthritis, or you’re recovering from joint replacement or another orthopaedic surgery. You might be a candidate for physical therapy if you experience:
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased range of motion
- Tissue damage
- Torn ligaments
- Tendinitis
To determine which treatment is best for you, your orthopedic specialist reviews your symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical exam and often recommend that you undergo blood tests and an imaging procedure (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds).
They use the exam and imaging information to diagnose the kind of tissue damage you have and how severe it is.
What happens during physical therapy sessions?
During each physical therapy session, you complete strength exercises and flexibility training that challenges your musculoskeletal tissues without overworking them. The movements you complete gradually increase in difficulty, allowing you to move toward your goal.
How long will I need physical therapy?
Many patients take part in physical therapy for a few weeks, while others attend therapy sessions for several months, even years. Your specialist personalizes each treatment based on your unique needs, desired outcome, and how well you progress after each therapy session.
To improve treatment results, your orthopedist often recommends you do at-home exercises and stretches in addition to in-office treatments. Follow your provider’s instructions regarding physical activity until you fully recover from an injury.
If you experience an injury, disease, pain, or reduced range of motion, call the Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson today to find out if physical therapy is right for you. You can also book an appointment online.
