Physical therapy is a field of medicine that deals with the healing of various injuries, including treating musculoskeletal and neurological disorders. In addition to the physical aspect of the profession, therapists are tasked with maintaining patients’ health and quality of life and helping patients regain their mobility.
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Electrotherapy
A physical therapist uses electrotherapy as part of a patient’s overall treatment plan. The treatment involves directing mild electrical pulses to an area of pain. The impulses affect the brain and body to change how pain is perceived. During the treatment, the physical therapist monitors the patient’s comfort and adjusts the stimulation levels to meet the patient’s needs.
Several types of electrotherapy are available. For example, interferential therapy is a type of electrotherapy that involves two currents passing through the skin simultaneously. This low-recurrence electric flow increases blood flow to the injured area.
Another form of electrotherapy, iontophoresis, involves the transdermal introduction of ionic compounds. When using any electrotherapy, it is essential to follow the recommended procedures and avoid any complications carefully. For example, electrotherapy may not be suitable if a patient has a heart or kidney condition.
When using electric therapy, it is also essential to avoid heat burns. Heat burns occur when there is an accumulation of heat in areas of high resistance.
Various electrotherapy devices are designed to be safe and effective. Newer devices are battery-powered and can be worn discreetly.
During the first consultation with a physiotherapist, the therapist will advise on the best electrotherapy method for a specific patient. Depending on the diagnosis and treatment plan, the patient can receive electrotherapy for various conditions.
Wound management
When it comes to wound management, physical therapists have a significant role to play. They assess, educate, treat and encourage wound healing. These services are performed in many different practice settings.
The need for effective wound management is growing, with wounds becoming more common in the healthcare system.
Physical therapists are highly trained in the latest wound-care treatments. They also have an in-depth knowledge of anatomy and mobility. A wound care therapist will work with the rest of the medical team to ensure the best possible outcome.
Some of the most common interventions are compression therapy, debridement, and capillary refill. Therapists can also use advanced wound treatment modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and negative pressure wound therapy.
Physical therapists can design specific interventions to assist with strengthening, mobility training, and balance. Their expertise in these areas is also beneficial when managing edema.
Physical therapists can work to improve the quality of life of patients with wounds, including those who have diabetes or arthritis. They can also perform compression, lymphatic drainage, and short-stretch bandaging.
Musculoskeletal health
Physical therapists work on musculoskeletal health, helping patients to recover from injuries and chronic conditions.
Musculoskeletal rehabilitation can help patients improve strength and function, reduce symptoms, and improve overall well-being. It can be used after an injury, recovery from a severe illness, or surgery.
Musculoskeletal physical therapy can reduce the need for surgery and other medical interventions. It can also be an alternative to prescription drugs.
Physical therapists can also provide information on workplace design and ergonomics. They can offer guidance on how to use furniture and other equipment in the workplace. These services can be integrated with primary care, thereby reducing the time and expense of testing.
Geriatric physical therapists can work with older people with age-related concerns like mobility problems. Some musculoskeletal disorders can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle. Physical therapy exercises can also positively affect chronic diseases and sleep patterns.
Neurological health
Physical therapists are specially trained to help people with neurological conditions recover their mobility, strength, and independence. They can also prevent disability and promote healing.
A neurological disorder can cause difficulty balancing, swallowing, speaking, or moving. It can also interfere with learning, memory, or the senses.
Although there is no known cure for most neurological diseases, treatment can improve functioning. Physical therapy helps retrain muscles to regain mobility and strength. Rehabilitation exercises may include balance training, motor control training, and coordination.
Physical therapists are responsible for educating patients about their condition and explaining what treatments they can expect. They also provide psychosocial support in a therapeutic environment.
Physical therapy programs can be tailored to the needs of each individual. Typically, the patient’s goal is to regain a baseline of function that can be maintained in the future. New skills and exercises can be added along the way.
The most apparent advantage of physical therapy is that it can improve movement. The goal is to regain as much strength as possible in the injured part of the brain or body.
Cardiopulmonary health
Cardiopulmonary health is something that physical therapists from Physio Inq can help patients with. They can assess current symptoms and prescribe an exercise program to improve a patient’s overall health.
Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation can benefit people of all ages. Whether you’ve suffered from a heart attack, stroke, or scoliosis, it can help you regain your physical and emotional health.
A cardiopulmonary therapist helps you learn breathing techniques and a safe, effective exercise regimen. In addition, the team may call in other professionals to assist with your care.
Cardiac rehab programs also provide support for mental health issues, including depression. Patients are encouraged to attend group exercises and follow a diet and exercise plan.