Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy is form of rehabilitation for those who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that may limit their ability to move and function in their daily lives. The goal of this service is to help improve mobility and flexibility, reduce pain, restore function, and improve quality of life. With a thorough assessment by a Physical Therapist your treatment plan will be designed to prevent disability or treat ailments that prohibit functionality in everyday life.
Your program will typically include hands-on manual therapy, exercise, and modalities. Exercises can include stretching, strengthening, core stabilization, and postural re-education. Your exercise program will be individually tailored to address your functional limitations and goals. Modalities may include ultrasound, electrical stimulation, iontophoresis, moist heat, ice, paraffin bath, and traction. If you are scheduled for aquatic therapy, you will perform a series of stretching and strengthening exercises in the pool, possibly using the current, handheld paddles, water weights, or other tools.
A Physical Therapist (PT) is a licensed health care professional who evaluates a patient's physical status, establishes a plan of care and goals, then administers treatments to promote optimal health. Physical Therapists seek to relieve pain, improve the body's movement and function, maintain cardiopulmonary function, and limit disabilities resulting from injury or disease.
A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is licensed and provides physical therapy care under the supervision of a Physical Therapist.
A Physical Therapy Tech or Aide is an unlicensed person who assists a Physical Therapist and is under the direct and immediate supervision of a Physical Therapist. The Physical Therapy Tech (or Aide) can only provide direct care to the patient if the supervising Physical Therapist is within audible reach.
From Physical Therapy Board of California.
For more information, click on any of the following websites:
• Physical Therapy Board of California
• American Physical Therapy Association
• California Physical Therapy Association