PHYSICAL THERAPY

Physical Therapy/Therapist Physical Therapy is the treatment of disorders of the muscles, bones, or joints by means of physical agents such as heat, light, water, manual and electronic massage, and exercise. A stroke, arthritis, fractures, and nerve damage are common conditions that are treated by Physical Therapy. The type of treatment needed is prescribed by a physician and carried out by trained physiotherapists. A therapist attempts to prevent pain or further damage and may also train different muscles to compensate for the ones that have been damaged. Such methods such as whirlpool baths are valuable in treating injuries and chronic inflammatory conditions. Ultrasound and short-wave diathermy may also be used in treating certain forms of disorder. Massage is also a form of physical therapy. It provides stimulation of nerves and prevents muscular atrophy in body areas disabled by paralysis or rheumatic disorders. On top of these methods that a certified physiotherapist can perform a person involved in physical therapy must also do their part of the deal. This includes active exercises as treatment to rebuild strength lost in an area of the body during a time of healing. Physical Therapists are well educated in understanding the interaction of all your body parts. Their approach to your problem begins with an examination, then a diagnosis, and then a treatment of your problem. Along with this they teach you how to take care of yourself by showing you how to do exercises to properly gain strength and mobility to prevent recurring injury. To become a Physical Therapist the minimum educational requirement is a post-baccalaureate degree from an accredited college/university. The majority of these programs offer a master’s degree. There are about 200 colleges and universities nationwide that offer professional education programs in physical therapy.