Orthopedic Physical Therapy can be a life-altering process for individuals affected by acute and chronic bone problems or who have undergone orthopedic surgery recently. With help of an experienced and skilled physical therapist under the supervision of an orthopedic surgeon, one can successfully get back to your daily routine.
Let’s see how it works. We are here to give you a complete idea of what goes in Orthopedic physical therapy. Read on!
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Physiotherapy in Orthopedics
During the treatment process of an orthopedic patient, the orthopedic surgeon diagnoses and decides the kind of physiotherapy required, besides medication. Physiotherapy treats conditions that restrict the functioning of any particular part(s) of the musculoskeletal system.
Orthopedic physical therapy covers all parts of your musculoskeletal system, such as your bones, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments, and connective tissues. A skilled PT under the supervision of an orthopedic surgeon carries out a proper regime of physiotherapy to treat your problems. The regime may include:
- Identifying the right movement diagnosis
- Developing a treatment plan
- Administering therapeutic care
- Explaining to you the details of the existing injury and ways to prevent extreme conditions.
Conditions treated by orthopedic physical therapy
Orthopedic physical therapy can be used to treat any type of condition that disrupts the normal functioning or movement of your musculoskeletal system. Physiotherapy is a boon for the primary treatment for different musculoskeletal conditions, such as:
- Joint pain
- Bursitis
- Frozen shoulder
- Knee instability
- Lower back pain
- Scoliosis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Various types of arthritis
Process of orthopedic physical therapy
To treat your skeletal and muscular conditions, your orthopedic PT will perform a routined procedure that includes different tools during the sessions.
Here are the most significant tools utilized during the therapy sessions:
Therapeutic modalities
Patients see amazing results from a wide range of therapies like heat, ice, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and dry needling. These modalities help to enhance flexibility, reduces swelling, boost relaxation, and minimizes pain.
Assistive devices
Your PT may suggest using devices like slings, crutches, walkers, braces, and walking sticks for better assistance in your physical movement.
Evaluation and assessment
During physiotherapy, your surgeon will prescribe medication after proper evaluation of your indications – your movements and lifestyle. Frequent assessment during the treatment session is carried out to evaluate the periodic outcomes like the level of pain, range of motion, posture, strength, and balance.
Massage and Mobilization
Muscle movement is an essential part of training your body therapeutically. Your orthopedic PT may give your soft tissue massages to improve blood flow and minimise stiffness of the joints. In the case of hands-on therapy, the PT will move the joints and muscles for you as and when required.
Exercise
Besides everything that your PT does for you, your participation in the orthopedic physical therapy is equally vital. You need to perform some crucial recovery exercises as suggested by your therapist.
Your PT will suggest you do physical activities that will help in improving your range of motion, balance, flexibility, strength, endurance, and functional mobility.
To book an appointment for orthopedic physical therapy, you can reach out to your orthopedist for suggestions and references.