Function Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a cure not just a temporary relief from all those body aches and pains a person suffers from. Unlike ordinary massages, physical therapy looks into the physical problems of an individual to prevent them from further deteriorating and affecting a major part of his life. And as this is a science, it aims to promote physical endurance and stability in muscle and bone coordination.

People who can greatly benefit from physical therapy include those with temporary and permanent disabilities as well as those experiencing pains in certain parts of their body. The goal here is to relieve a patient from pain and allow him or her to lead a normal life performing his daily tasks with no difficulty. It targets the musculoskeletal, neuromusculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary and integument systems of the body. Specifically, the major benefits are as follows:

? Increase and maintain muscle strength and endurance;

? Regain joint range of motion;

? Reduce pain;

? Reduce muscle spasm;

? Lessen joint swelling and inflammation;

? Prevent deformity of limbs;

? Correct walking problems;

? Educate patients and their family; and

? Lessen stress.

While adults are often the major beneficiaries, children can also benefit from physical therapy. Kids experiencing developmental delays as well as muscle and joint weaknesses early in life can be aided by a physiatrist in regaining their strength and balance. Exercises and ultrasound therapies are also applied depending on the physical weakness problem involved.

The process of physical therapy entails rehabilitation of the physical body and mindset of a patient. Exercises including stretching, balance and coordination performed at the facility or at home are given to suit the patient’s condition, medicines and vitamins may be prescribed by the doctor and electrical stimulation and massage may be applied on affected parts of the body. Other treatment methods used are trigger point release, soft tissue release, myofascial stretching, muscle re-education, re-conditioning program and specific strengthening of weak muscles such as those suffered by stroke patients.

In addition to the physical aspect, patients may also undergo emotional therapy. This is to encourage them to go on with their therapy and not be frustrated with their condition. A positive outlook is vital in order for the therapy to take its full effect. It is also essential that patients follow the instructions of physical therapists to the letter. Exercises should be performed continuously even at home to maintain the body’s strength and posture.

Physical therapy has different types. The orthopedic therapy is the most common and normally done in the hospital after surgery. Pediatric physical therapy is aimed at determining the health problems of infants, children and adolescents while geriatric therapy focuses on older people suffering from osteoporosis and other problems related to aging. Neurological therapy is for people with neurological diseases such as cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and brain injuries. Speech therapy, meanwhile, is helpful in strengthening facial muscles especially in children having difficulty eating and swallowing.