A physical therapist who specializes in orthopedic physical therapy may be able to help you if you have any kind of injury or disease that has a negative effect on 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 your range of motion, as well as reduce strength and flexibility. These impairments can make it difficult to live a normal life and enjoy your 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 to navigate the rehabilitation process and how to properly use assist devices.

A physical therapist uses tools

During rehabilitation programs, your orthopedic physical therapist may use a variety of 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
• To increase mobility and range of motion, you can practice a variety of exercises and modalities.
• 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 how to do the correct exercises. They also use a variety of modalities during rehabilitation so you can get back to your normal life as quickly as possible.