Physical Therapy Heals Following Injury Or Illness

Physical therapy is an effective treatment for patients following injury or illness. Physical therapists design personalized exercises and manual manipulations specifically for each of their individual patients. Depending on the physical needs and abilities of the patient, this physical therapy can be provided in a full-service facility with specialized equipment or on an outpatient basis in a patient's own home. 

Therapists have different certifications depending on their studies and training. Some physical therapists specialize in orthopedics, strength training, sports medicine, or applied functional science. Others specialize in cardiovascular and pulmonary conditioning, neurology, geriatrics, pediatrics, or women's health.  

Many injuries and illnesses benefit from physical therapy and guided exercise. Here are a few of them:

• Occupational Therapy - For patients that have been affected by an accident or trauma, physical therapy can rehabilitate them slowly and safely to regain lost flexibility, mobility, and physical conditioning. Many accident or trauma patients have fractures, broken and healing bones, sprains, scars, and injured tendons and nerve damage. All of these conditions must be considered and managed in order for the patient to attain the maximum benefit from physical therapy.

• Breast Cancer Therapy - For patients who currently have breast cancer or who have survived breast cancer, physical therapy can be very beneficial. Physical therapies for breast cancer patients include strength training and cardiovascular training. Manual massage and manipulations of the neck and shoulders are also used to decrease pain and increase mobility. Physical therapy can also decrease nausea and stress during cancer treatment, as well as rebuild weak muscles and counteract fatigue. These exercises and physical therapies are designed for each patient individually to ensure their safety while healing. 

• Chronic Pain Therapy - For patients with chronic pain, physical therapy is many times the only treatment that can effectively help. Physical therapists for chronic pain patients use electrical stimulation, heat and/or cold therapy, ultrasound, water therapy, and stretching to ease pain and promote healing. A physical therapist will also observe and assess the pain a patient experiences during physical therapy and correct their form to prevent further pain and discomfort while allowing them to heal slowly and completely.  

If you have been injured or are recovering from an illness, guided exercise and physical therapy can speed your recovery and help you attain full use of your muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. Speak with a doctor from a company like St. Luke's Rehabilitation about specific exercises, massage, and physical therapies that are best for you to incorporate into your rehabilitation so that you can soon return to work, play, sports, and the activities of daily life.