Three Things You Might Not Know About Physical Therapy
As the US Healthcare system continues to transform, it’s important for patients to know their options and actively manage their own health and well-being. And a big part of that is knowing which healthcare professional is the best fit and why. When it comes to injury and illness, patients often don’t know the many ways that physical therapists are trained to help relieve symptoms, improve function and prevent further disability.
1. PTs often specialize in certain clinical areas. Similar to physicians, physical therapists can choose to specialize in certain areas and the options are vast. In fact, physical therapy’s scope reaches well beyond the commonly known sports-related injury. Some of the many areas physical therapists may have experience, advanced training or certification in include cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions, pediatrics, geriatrics, women’s health, oncology, wound management and neurology.
2. PTs practice in a variety of settings. Beyond outpatient clinics—which can be part of a healthcare system or private practices—physical therapists work in hospitals, nursing homes, sports and fitness facilities, schools, work settings, home health agencies, rehab hospitals and in the home. PTs work in the settings that align with their background, training and experience to draw on specific skills such as teaching proper body mechanics on the job or transferring a patient from the bed to a chair in an acute setting.
3. PTs help patients prevent injuries. Although physical therapists are widely known for helping patients regain strength and mobility following an injury or surgical procedure, the rehab professionals can also diagnose potential problems before they occur. With a thorough patient history and evaluation, PTs are experts in recognizing limitations, weaknesses and imbalances that could lead to series injuries or disabling conditions down the line.
Physical therapists are trained to help people of all ages with a range of conditions but what therapists specialize in may vary by practice setting or years of experience. At A2 Physical Therapy our specialities include: LSVT for Parkinson’s, unique treatment plans and high success rate with lower back pain, young athletes, SIJ pain and dysfunction, and cervicogenic pain/migraine relief. With this knowledge, patients are better equipped to find the right therapist to treat their injuries or illnesses. No matter what setting physical therapists work in or what they specialize in, they share a common goal: To help patients recover from illness or injury and to maintain or regain safe, functional mobility.
YOUR HEALTH IS OUR COMMITMENT
"It was very helpful to be taught exercises I could do at home to alleviate the pain in my back and to make my stomach/diaphragm stronger. It was a great experience and I took away a lot of knowledge to help myself."
− T. Docherty
"Before I started coming to A2 I was always tired and could barely pick up or carry my grandchildren a ½ block. After the first 6 weeks of working with Kristi I got a big surprise when I took my grandchildren to a festival and carried the youngest 4 blocks before she woke up enough to walk. I then picked her up and put her on my shoulders so she could see better without effort. I was amazed at how much strength I had gained in a short time. I continue to see improvement in my strength and I’m no longer tired all the time."
− Jacki
"A2 Physical Therapy has been an amazing place to be at for the past 3 years training with Kristi Cruz. I have had knee and shoulder issues and Alika has been great getting me back to doing the things I love. The staff here is always so loving and kind. I know when I come here I am always excited to be here. I love getting the warm smiles from everyone!"
− Haeli