What does a physical therapist do?
A physical therapist is a health care professional that works with patients to restore their physical mobility after a debilitating injury or illness as well as with patients who suffer disabilities either by birth, injury or illness. A physical therapist may specialize in pediatrics, orthopedics, sports medicine, arthritis, paralysis, or amputations. Physical therapists receive specialized training and work under the direction of a physician. Some of the job duties of a physical therapist include evaluating a patient’s condition by studying medical records, physician recommendations, and test results and then developing a physical therapy program for the patient. The physical therapist develops and executes exercises that help improve range of motion, muscle strength, coordination, endurance, and motor skills. Physical therapy may also involve massage therapy, traction, and heat or water therapy along with other interventions that help improve a patient’s comfort as well as expedite r
A Physical Therapist is a health professional with at least a 4-year degree that specializes in the evaluation and treatment of various diagnoses that limit physical functioning. A Physical Therapist evaluates components of movement including: • Strength • Range of motion • Flexibility • Balance • Posture • Body mechanics • Coordination • Endurance • General mobility (walking, stair climbing, getting in and out of bed or chairs) After evaluation, the Physical Therapist will develop a treatment program unique to each individual to help decrease deficits and restore function. A Physical Therapist may work in a variety of settings: • A clinic treating sports and orthopedic injuries • A clinic that specializes in workplace injuries • A hospital treating patients who have had surgeries, illnesses, strokes or other neurological events that limit function • A school working with children who have neurological or orthopedic disabilities • A facility that helps people return home after illness
We are experts at evaluation and treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunction. We are specifically trained to improve your mobility, strength, function and relieve pain. Physical Therapists help a person recover from an injury, surgery and aid in the recovery from a disease process or illness. At Advanced Physical Therapy Center, we use joint and soft tissue mobilization techniques, exercise, heat, ice, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound to improve your condition. All treatment is provided by highly skilled licensed physical therapists.
Physical therapy may assist in the care of infants and children with complex cardiac conditions. The physical therapist performs an evaluation to identify problem areas that may interfere with optimal motor function. Physical therapy treatment can be initiated to promote optimal positioning and to reduce the negative effects associated with prolonged immobility and critical illness. As the medical status stabilizes, the physical therapist advances activities to reduce debilitation and promote appropriate gross motor function.
