Physical Therapy will help ill or injured persons manage their pain and improve movement. It is a very important part of the treatment and rehabilitation of patients with injuries or chronic conditions. Physical Therapy is medically prescribed by a physician to prevent disability following an injury, loss of a body part, or after a debilitating disease. This therapy can include massage, water, heat, physical exercises and the utilization of various electrical and mechanical equipment and/or prosthetic and orthotic devices.
A Physical Therapist, sometimes called a PT, will be responsible for planning, preparing and carrying out a plan designed specifically for each individual. The Physical Therapist will perform and document an initial exam to evaluate the data necessary to determine diagnosis and identify problems before treatments begin. It will be necessary to evaluate the treatment at various stages and adjust accordingly so the patient can receive the maximum beneficial effects.
Monitoring, Speaking, Active Listening, Critical Thinking and Reading Comprehension are all vital skills required in this profession.
There are many tools that will be used in treatment of patients, including, but not limited to: Balance Beams, Bolsters, Wedges, Balance Boards, different pivotal tractions, Reflex hammers or mallets, Shoulder wheels, Mobilization tables and Ergometers.