What is Physical Therapy?

Neurological inborn disorders, developmental disorders, stroke, arthritis, osteoporosis and injuries from accidents and sports often lead to movement and function difficulties that may be due to pain or damaged muscle tissues, joints and bones. A person with a limited range of motion and impaired physical function may find it difficult to perform even the simplest tasks, such as walking and standing. Eventually, these things can affect relationships and career.

To restore physical movements and functions, physicians will prescribe medications to reduce pain and swelling or to undergo surgery, if necessary. Another option is to undergo Denver physical therapy, either in conjunction with medical treatments or on its own.

What is Physical Therapy?
what is physical therapy

Physical therapy is a rehabilitative treatment for people suffering from movement disorders or function impairments that may be due to an inborn disorder, illness or injury. Physical therapy can either be an exercise, massage, exposure to high or low temperatures, electrical stimulation, and hydrotherapy or ultrasound therapy to improve flexibility, endurance and to strengthen muscle tissues. Physical therapy also helps prevent further damage to avoid permanent movement disability.

Physical therapy is performed by licensed Denver physical therapists with or without a physician’s referral since a physical therapist is also considered a primary health-care provider. After determining the cause and extent of the movement disorder, a physical therapist will come up with a specialized therapy regimen.  Depending on the patient’s health situation, treatment can be done at the hospital or clinic and often patients are taught exercises and massages to be done at home. If the patient is unable to leave home, physical therapists can give them a personal visit.

Varying causes may require different approaches. Thus, physical therapists can also specialize in areas such as pediatrics, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, geriatrics, neurology, orthodontics or sports to be able to provide specific care for specific treatment needs.

Denver Physical Therapist

When you need a Denver physical therapist, trust Denver Physical Medicine & Rehab specializes in all types of physical therapy. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, please call 303-757-7280.