Millions of people seek physical therapy for the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries each year. Whether caused by sports, accidents or degenerative disorders, these injuries respond well to physical therapy. Did you know, though, that physical therapists can provide treatment for several genetic, neurological and movement disorders as well?

Here are just a few of the many surprising conditions physical therapists can treat.

5 Conditions Physical Therapists Can Treat

• Huntington’s Disease. Huntington’s Disease is a genetic disorder that causes the breakdown of nerve cells in the brand. The condition causes impaired judgement, involuntary movements, slurred speech and rapid weight loss. While the disorder is incurable, a physical therapist can help patients improve their core strength and stability to help control involuntary movements. Physical therapy also improves functional mobility and helps patients accomplish normal daily tasks.
• Sexual Dysfunction and Pelvic Pain. Sexual dysfunction and pelvic pain can often be treated through targeted stretches and exercises. In many women, dysfunction begins as the result of pregnancy and childbirth. Problems arise in men as well, however.Physical therapists can help alleviate the symptoms and correct underlying problems through exercises, manual therapy, electrical stimulation and several other treatments.
• Multiple Sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a debilitating disorder of the central nervous system. Therapists help patients with balance, gait training and mobility in response to the muscle weakness and numbness caused by the disorder.
• Vertigo, dizziness and general unsteadiness commonly occur in people over the age of 65, and it’s a primary cause of falls. In many situations, physical therapists can help with balance disorders and dizziness through rehabilitation and balance exercises.
• Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease and affects more than 27 million people in the United States. The disease causes stiffness, pain and swelling. Physical therapists can help ease these symptoms and improve functionality through range-of-motion assessments, manual therapy exercises and by strengthening the surrounding muscles.

Denver Physical Therapist

If you’re suffering from any of these conditions, your Denver physical therapist can help. To learn more about the many conditions we can treat and the physical therapy services we offer at Denver Physical Medicine & Rehab, contact us today by calling 303-757-7280.