Physical therapy is a field of medicine that promotes health and healing of movement-related disorders through physical rehabiltation. Healthcare professionals that specialize in this field include doctors of physical therapy. With their doctorates, they can treat patients of all ages so they may move and function better.
But how do these medical experts accomplish this? Let’s talk about the ways a doctor of physical therapy helps you.
1. Assess Patients
Before your therapy begins, your physical therapist will examine your condition and ask you a few questions before a physical assessment.
Your therapist will ask how you are feeling and the degree to which your condition is hurting you. They will also ask for your medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, previous injuries, and medications you are taking.
They will also like to know how your present condition affects your life and what it was like prior to your injury or condition.
During the physical examination, your doctor will examine your current condition, such as your strength and flexibility. They will also check your mobility.
For example, your limbs will be moved in particular ways to see if your condition affects your range of motion. They will also check your posture, balance, and coordination.
2. Develop Treatment Plans
After assessing your current condition, your doctor will begin formulating a treatment plan. It will depend on the information from the questions they asked you and the physical examination.
Once you have a treatment plan, your therapist will explain your goals. These can range from improving your physical performance to developing strength and posture.
There will also be milestones to reach while working toward these goals.
Doctors of physical therapy are experts when it comes to the human body and the way it moves. That means they can utilize various treatments to treat your conditions. These treatments could include:
- Exercises
- Stretching
- Massage
- Electrical stimulation
- Ultrasound
- Heat and cold therapy
3. Assist Patients During Treatment
Your physical therapist’s involvement in your therapy does not end with them creating and giving you your treatment plan. While there are exercises you can do on your own at home, others require the help of your physical therapist.
These include passive activities involving a painful joint, where your physical therapist manipulates your body.
Doctors of physical therapy also guide you during your exercises and stretches. They will give you tips on how to perform the activity when needed.
4. Help Patients Improve Their Health
Aside from taking part in your treatment, doctors of physical therapy will show you how to improve your overall health. They will work with you so you can maintain a fully functional life, even after your program.
They can teach you how to move safely and avoid falls and injuries. They can also recommend ways to perform repetitive motions in your job without hurting yourself.
If you are an athlete, doctors of physical therapy can help you build your endurance and strength. They can also teach you how to avoid injuries during play.
5. Work at a Wide Range of Places
Physical therapy doesn’t stop at the hospital or clinic. Physical therapists are very flexible when it comes to the places they can provide treatment.
They can visit your home to assist you in your treatment. You can also find physical therapists working in schools and assisted living facilities. Aside from hospitals, they work in sports training facilities, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics.
Best Doctors of Physical Therapy in Austin, TX
Physical therapy is an effective treatment for people experiencing pain, suffering from an injury, or recovering from surgery. Doctors of physical therapy are highly trained professionals who can help patients regain their mobility and functionality.
If you need a doctor of physical therapy, you can trust Endeavor Physical Therapy & Wellness. Our team of experienced healthcare providers is committed to helping you regain mobility and strengthen your body. With the help of our personalized care plan, you will experience an improvement in your overall fitness in no time.
If you have more questions or need a physical therapist in Austin, TX, call our friendly staff at (512) 213-1092. You may also use our convenient online request form to book a consultation with the best PT clinic near you. We also have offices in San Marcos, Kyle, Bee Cave, Manor, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Cedar Park, and Hutto, TX.
We look forward to serving you!
