Understanding the Roles of a Physical Therapist
From hospitals to outpatient clinics, physical therapists help people of all ages stay active and recover from debilitating injuries and illnesses. If you’re seeing a physical therapist for the first time, you want to know what to expect. Here’s some information about their role.
1. Diagnosing and Evaluating
Physical therapists are trained to diagnose and evaluate a patient’s condition before beginning any treatment. They use various methods, such as conducting physical assessments, taking medical histories, and ordering imaging studies or lab tests to assess injury or illness. It helps the physical therapist identify the root cause of a patient’s problems, so they can develop the best possible treatment plan.
2. Developing Treatment Plans
Once a physical therapist has evaluated a patient, they’ll create an individualized treatment plan based on their needs and goals. This plan involves setting both short and long-term goals designed to help patients achieve optimal results. Physical therapists also work with other medical professionals to ensure that the plan is comprehensive and covers all aspects of rehabilitation.
3. Implementing Treatment Plans
After developing a treatment plan, your physical therapist implements it by performing various therapeutic exercises, stretches, and other activities. These activities may include strengthening and balance exercises, posture correction, and range-of-motion exercises. Therapists also help patients understand the proper form and technique for performing these exercises, so they don’t further injure themselves.
4. Monitoring Progress
Physical therapists monitor patient progress throughout their treatment. They may keep track of progress by tracking the patient’s range of motion, strength, and balance measurements. Keeping track of these metrics helps therapists adjust the treatment as necessary and ensure that the patient is making progress toward their goals.
5. Educating Patients and Families
Patients and their families also receive education from these professionals. They teach them about proper exercise form, safety considerations, and managing pain during rehabilitation. Education is one of the most important roles of a physical therapist as it helps ensure that patients can continue with their treatment plan.
Physical therapists are vital medical professionals who help people of all ages stay active and recover from debilitating injuries and illnesses. With the help of these professionals, patients can return to enjoying an active life. According to Zippia, America has over 110,566 physical therapists, so people should understand how important this profession is to the nation’s health and wellness. Contact Think Back Physical Therapy today to learn more.
