There are often misconceptions that physical therapy is only for the elderly, people who have had surgery, or “just exercise.” While physical therapists do treat the elderly population and help rehabilitate those who have had an orthopedic surgical procedure, physical therapists treat many more conditions. So what is physical therapy, and how can it benefit you?
What Conditions do Physical Therapists See?
Physical therapists treat an extensive variety of conditions. From orthopedic surgeries to vestibular rehabilitation, physical therapy can be beneficial to many people. Therapists treat both acute injuries and chronic conditions. Additionally, our therapists are skilled in working with worker’s compensation in order to get you back to work as quickly and safely as possible. Physical therapists treat people following motor vehicle accidents as well. Here is just a small sample of some of the conditions physical therapist can treat:
- rehab after stroke
- cardiac rehab
- orthopedic surgeries including knee, hip, shoulder, wrist, back and neck surgeries
- certain types of vertigo
- generalized weakness and deconditioning
- chronic neck and back pain
- ankle sprains
- muscle tears, strains and sprains
- athletic injuries
- and many more!
What Treatment Methods do Physical Therapists Use?
There is a common misconception that physical therapists only use exercise. While exercise is certainly a vital component of rehabilitation, physical therapists do so much more than write out exercise programs. With prescribing exercise in the appropriate progression to balance stress and recovery allowing your injury to heal while strengthening your body, therapists are also trained movement specialists, able to assess your body’s movement patterns and improve your mechanics.
Physical therapists use evidence based techniques to re-educate your muscles that have became weak. They can use techniques to improve balance and stability. Physical therapists are also trained in manual therapy including massage techniques, mobilizations, and manipulations. Additionally, therapists use modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and other advanced techniques to help control your pain and get you back to your regular activity quickly.
How Do I Find a Physical Therapist?
For over thirty years, university trained therapists at Venture Rehabilitation Sciences Group have been helping people feel their best. With 19 clinics across Saskatchewan, you can get started right away, no doctor’s referral needed.