What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy helps get you back to your life after you have an impairment, functional limitation, disability, or change in your physical function and health because of an injury, disease, or other cause.

What does a physical therapist do?

A physical therapist (PT) performs a number of tests and measurements to help identify your impairments, functional limitations and disabilities. These test results are used to determine your diagnosis and appropriate treatments. Before therapy begins, your prognosis and plan of care will be discussed with you and your questions will be answered. Your PT documents the changes you make and determines your rehabilitation needs for after you leave the hospital. The goal of the physical therapist is to help reduce pain and increase mobility and function, leading you to independence and a successful return to your home.

Do I need physical therapy?

You may need physical therapy if you suffer from one or more of the following:    

• Orthopedic injuries
• Stroke
• Arthritis
• Athletic injuries
• Amputee
• Balance disorders
• Neurological impairments of the spine and extremities
• Lymphedema
• Cardiopulmonary impairments
• Impairments of skin wound and scar management

What are the benefits of physical therapy?

• Increased mobility
• Restored joint range of motion
• Increased muscle strength
• Reduced pain and discomfort
• Restored athletic skills
• Reduced risk of work-related, repeated stress disorders
• Education in injury prevention and postural control .