At some point in life, your body will probably need some help healing from some kind of setback. You can do all the right things to stay healthy, but that doesnt make you immune to health problems. If you find yourself needing help recovering from an injury or something, you will probably be asked to see a physical therapist. Physical therapy is a form of rehabilitation aimed at helping people with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities to improve their physical function and quality of life. There are great options to choose from when looking for an Idaho Falls physical therapist.
Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Using this type of physical therapy is used to treat injuries and conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, such as fractures, sprains, strains, and post-surgical rehabilitation. It is common that you will have to go to this type of physical therapist after an injury or surgery such as a torn ligament, or a broken wrist. Orthopedic physical therapy aims to restore the patient’s strength, range of motion, and flexibility, as well as reduce pain and inflammation. It usually includes exercises, manual therapy, and the use of devices such as braces and splints.
Geriatric Physical Therapy
This type of physical therapy is used to treat the elderly population who have conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and balance problems. Geriatric physical therapy aims to improve mobility, reduce pain, and increase strength and flexibility. Another main goal for this type of physical therapy is to reduce the fall risk that a patient has. A lot of their exercises will be movements that they have to do throughout their day. This way the muscles that they are using often can be strengthened and they can use their stabilizers. It may involve exercises, gait training, and fall prevention strategies in the care plan.
Sports Physical Therapy
This is for treating athletes with injuries or conditions related to their sport. Sports physical therapy aims to restore the athlete’s strength, flexibility, and endurance, as well as reduce the risk of re-injury. An athlete uses this kind of physical therapy to speed up recovery but also as injury prevention. Typically physical therapists work within this field will work with you to strengthen the main muscles that are needed for the sport you participate in. When you go to an appointment it will likely involve exercises, manual therapy, and the use of sports-specific training.
Postpartum Physical Therapy
This type of physical therapy is for women who have just gone through pregnancy, and birth, and are in the postpartum stage. Through all of these stages, the body has gone through a lot of change and strain. During the postpartum period, there is a good chance that you may have ab separation or a weak pelvic floor. Both of these things can be worked on and addressed with a postpartum physical therapist. This will include exercises to increase strength in your core and pelvic floor muscles.
Physical therapy is a diverse field with different types of therapies used for different conditions. If you have an injury or condition that affects your physical function, consult with a physical therapist to determine the type of therapy that is right for you.