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What Does a Physical Therapist Do?

Physical therapists (PTs) are health professionals who work to improve movement and function. They can help with a variety of health conditions that affect the body's muscles and bones, such as back pain or arthritis. They also help people recover from injuries or surgeries and prevent health problems like diabetes and obesity. Read more  great facts on Mobilize PT Mountlake Terrace,  click here. 

 

PTs use the latest research to design treatment plans that fit their patients' needs and goals, helping them feel better and move better. This can include using manual therapy, exercises and other treatments to improve strength and mobility, as well as educating patients on how to manage their health and prevent future problems. For more useful reference regarding injury physical therapy, have a peek here. 

 

Many physical therapists have special interests or areas of expertise. For example, some therapists specialize in orthopedics or pediatrics. In addition, a few have a specialty in wound management or integumentary therapy.

 

When you first meet with a therapist, they will perform an evaluation of your condition and needs. They will ask you questions about your symptoms and how you move or do everyday tasks. They will also look at your medical history and check your fitness level.

 

At the end of your first appointment, your PT will create a personalized plan that addresses your needs and goals. They will work with you to determine what type of therapy is best for you, how often and in what setting (in-office, home, telehealth), and how long it will take before you see improvement.

 

For instance, if you have an autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation, your PT may want to start with gentle exercise to improve your flexibility and reduce swelling. They might recommend stretching exercises, low-impact aerobic activities, and other exercises that can help you increase your strength and endurance.

 

Your PT might suggest that you wear supportive braces or other devices that can help keep your joints in place during the exercises. They will also teach you how to care for these devices so they stay clean and working properly. Please view this site https://www.wikihow.health/Become-a-Physical-Therapist  for further details. 

 

They will also show you how to exercise safely and effectively. They can also teach you how to do simple things that can help you feel better, such as using a heating pad on your knees or taking a bath with warm water.

 

In some cases, a therapist will prescribe medications to help your condition or relieve your symptoms. They might use a muscle relaxant, anti-inflammatory, or analgesic. These medications are often combined with other types of physical therapy, like massage, to achieve their desired effect.

 

Physiotherapists are licensed and certified to practice physical therapy in most states. They must earn a bachelor's degree in a related field and then complete a doctoral program to receive their physical therapy degree. They must also pass a national exam to become licensed.

 

Careers in physical therapy have grown dramatically over the past few decades, mainly because of an aging population that is increasingly active and has more chronic health conditions. In addition, there has been an increase in demand for PTs to treat individuals with musculoskeletal disorders such as back pain or knee injuries, and an increase in the number of health insurance companies that cover physical therapy services.