A physical therapist who specializes in orthopedic physical therapy may be able to help you if you have an injury or disease that negatively affects your bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Today, physical therapy is a specialty for medical professionals. The type of physical therapist you choose will depend on your situation. However, an orthopedic physical therapist would be the best choice if you have an injury to any of the above-mentioned organs.
Orthopedic conditions involve the use of soft and bony structures in the body.
Orthopedic physical therapy conditions
Orthopedic physical therapy aims to treat the musculoskeletal system, which includes joints, bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other connective tissue.
- Fractures
- Ligament sprains and strains of the muscle-tendon and ligament
- Tendonitis
- Tenosynovitis
- Bursitis
- Conditions post-operative
An injury to the muscle skeleton organ may limit the range of motion and reduce strength and flexibility. These impairments can make it difficult to live a normal life and enjoy daily activities.
An orthopedic physical therapist’s main focus is to help you regain your range of motion.
You may need to be aware of certain limitations after any surgery. For example, if your bone has been broken, you won’t be able to use it for approximately 4-8 weeks. Your orthopedic physical therapist will help you navigate the rehabilitation process and teach you how to use assistive devices properly.
A physical therapist uses tools
During rehabilitation programs, your orthopedic physical therapist may use various tools, modalities, and exercises.
- Therapeutic modalities include cryotherapy, heat therapy, and electrical stimulation
- Additionally, assistive devices like walkers and canes for broken bones, braces, and prosthetics may be used
- There are many exercise tools and equipment, such as dumbbells or resistance bands.
- Assessment and evaluation tools for assessing the extent of damage
- Massage therapy by hand and instruments for soft tissue massage
Physical therapy goals
Physical therapists use many tools and instruments to help you move better and speed up your recovery. Physical therapy has several main goals.
- Stabilizing affected organ
- Flexibility increases
- You can practice various exercises and modalities to increase mobility and range of motion.
- Balance exercises can be used to address balance issues
- For improving your cardiovascular and respiratory system, endurance exercises are recommended.
An orthopedic physical therapist will teach you the correct exercises and use a variety of modalities during rehabilitation so you can get back to your normal life as quickly as possible.
