physical therapy

Overview

The principles of physical therapy have been part of healing arts since recorded time. Physical therapy is an important part of a nonsurgical approach to restore, maintain, and promote overall health. Working with a doctor, a physical therapist (PT) will help patients who have suffered an accident, injury, or disease, or those recovering from surgery.

What is physical therapy?

Physical therapists (PTs) evaluate an individual’s movement, interaction of all parts of the body, and body types. They work in a variety of settings (e.g., clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, private offices) and with a variety of healthcare providers (e.g., doctors, nurses, occupational therapists). Some PTs specialize in rehabilitation for the back.

How can physical therapy help me?

Physical therapy can help restore function, relieve pain, and improve mobility. This therapy also helps restore muscle balance and good spinal alignment by:

stretching tight muscles

strengthening weak muscles

restoring mobility to stiff joints

relieving strain on ligaments

About your office visit

After reviewing your medical history, the PT will evaluate strength, range of motion, balance, coordination, posture, and more. With an understanding of body mechanics, the PT customizes a treatment plan to meet your needs. The goal is to improve function in your daily activities; the patient’s progress in this way is carefully tracked.

Treatment may include exercises to stretch and strengthen muscles, and to improve endurance. Manual therapies include massage and mobilization. Other therapies may be electric stimulation, physical conditioning, ice/heat packs, and traction. Your PT may design a home exercise program, or teach you how to use devices like crutches, prosthesis, or wheelchairs if needed. Patient education may include good posture, safe work habits, and prevention of sports injuries. Recovery takes time and commitment, and varies with each patient.

What training do physical therapists have?

PTs have earned a bachelor's or master's degree, or both in physical therapy. National and state board examinations are required for licensing.

Finding a physical therapist?

Consult with your doctor and/or healthcare coordinator to choose a PT who may best meet your treatment needs.

Sources & links

If you have more questions, please contact the Mayfield Spine Institute at 513-221-1100 or 800-325-7787. Additional information is available on the web at www.ptcentral.com and the American Physical Therapy Association at www.apta.org

updated: 2.2008
reviewed by: Banita Bailey, RN, BSN, CCM

Mayfield Certified Health Info materials are written and developed by the Mayfield Clinic & Spine Institute in association with the University of Cincinnati Neuroscience Institute. This information is not intended to replace the medical advice of your health care provider.

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Mayfield services

We strive to manage patients as conservatively as possible. Physical therapy strengthens back and stomach muscles. Nearly 80% of our spine patients are able to recover with nonsurgical treatment.

At Mayfield, patients who come to us with neck and back problems are given a rapid review of their medical condition within a few days ... not weeks. It's a treatment process called Priority Consult.

To make an appointment call 513-221-1100.

Mayfield Physical Therapy Network

A listing of preferred physical therapy providers in the region that have been oriented to Mayfield's spine treatment processes. While there are many qualified physical therapists in the area, these providers have met our criteria for treating patients with spinal diseases and disorders.