Physical therapy overall works to help those who are dealing with an injury or illness improve and develop their mobility and manage pain. Orthopedic physical therapy has the same goals but focuses on issues involving the musculoskeletal system (joints, bones, muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue).
The role of physical therapy in orthopedic care is a key component of preventative measures, rehabilitation, and overall mobility when a patient’s injury or chronic pain is making daily tasks difficult to accomplish and inhibits their quality of life.
Evaluation
To figure out the best treatment plan for a patient, physical therapists will perform an assessment or evaluation to learn more about the cause of your injury or chronic pain. They measure components such as strength, range of motion of the injured area, and balance.
Preventative
One of the ways physical therapy can be used in orthopedic care is as a preventative measure to prolong orthopedic surgery such as joint replacements, herniated disks, etc. Physical therapists can work with a patient to strengthen the areas with minor or chronic aches to relieve pain or increase range of motion. Preventative physical therapy aids to exhaust all measures before surgery, or suppressing small injuries from turning into bigger ones.
Rehabilitation or Recovery
For patients who have surgery, an orthopedic surgeon will likely have physical therapy as part of the post-operative treatment plan. The goal of physical therapy in this scenario is to help restore mobility and function to the part of the body that underwent a procedure. These treatment plans include post-operative total joint rehabilitation and return to sports programs.
At DMOS, our specialty-trained orthopedic surgeons and physical and hand therapists work together to help get you back to living the activities you love pain-free.
Schedule an appointment today.
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