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What is a physical therapist?
A physical therapist is a health professional who has a college degree, often a Master's or Doctorate, in the discipline of physical therapy. The profession became organized as a result of efforts to rehabilitate soldiers who were wounded in World War I, and their success evolved into the academic programs and licensing standards that ensure the integrity of the profession today.
The expertise of a physical therapist is the examination and treatment of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular problems affecting your ability to move and function in your daily life without difficulty or pain. They treat people of all ages and from all walks of life, and they practice in essentially every healthcare setting, as well as providing home care.
What is involved in a physical therapy program?
Physical therapy is based on an evaluation of your ability to move and function normally and without pain. A physical therapy prescription is developed to address and relieve or correct any problems or limitations that are identified. The prescription will include therapeutic exercises and functional training, plus the education that is needed to practice exercises at home. Specific techniques that a physical therapist might use depend on the needs of individual. However, the techniques listed below may be used in varying combinations in specific treatments.
- Muscle-strengthening exercises
- Mobilization or manipulation of a joint through its normal range of motion
- Massage
- Ultrasound
- Electrical stimulation
- Hot packs
- Ice
How do I sign up for physical therapy?
Oklahoma state law requires a physician's referral for you to enter a physical therapy program. Your physician may recommend physical therapy for a particular problem you have, or you can ask for a referral from your doctor.
What is the difference between physical therapy and occupational therapy?
A physical therapist works with you to help restore movement and function without pain or limitation. An occupational therapist works with you to restore a higher level of independence in performing activities of daily living.
How long will I be in physical therapy?
Physical therapy is a highly individualized program of treatment. The therapist evaluates each patient to identify areas that are causing you pain or limitation and prescribes a treatment program that targets each specific problem. Additionally, goals are established to measure progress and each person advances toward goals at a different pace. In general, therapy may be accomplished in 8 to 12 sessions, or it may take longer. Your therapist can explain what to expect for your treatment.
How long does it take to get results in physical therapy?
Because no two people are alike, even if their problems are similar, it is difficult to predict how long it will take to see results. However, your treatment program will be designed to move you forward at a rate that is appropriate for you. A progressive program, physical therapy is designed to help you get better in stages. Trying too hard can cause you further problems, while neglecting recommended home activities and exercises will slow your progress.
How long is each physical therapy session?
Most physical therapy sessions are 30 minutes to 1 hour in length, and the typical treatment program requires two to three sessions per week. This may vary depending on individual needs.
Are physical therapy sessions painful?
If pain is part of the reason you have been referred for physical therapy, you may experience some pain as you perform the prescribed exercises and activities. However, pain relief will be one of the goals of your therapy, and each element of your treatment will help to strengthen muscles and increase joint range of motion without pain. You will be asked to rate your pain on a scale of 1 to 10 when you start therapy, and your therapist will ask you periodically to re-evaluate your pain both at rest and during therapy activities. Pain should lessen gradually as you progress in your treatment, and your therapist can teach you how to use ice and heat for relief of any soreness you may feel after therapy sessions.
What should I do if my pain increases after a physical therapy session?
Working your muscles and joints can cause some muscle soreness or joint pain following a physical therapy session. However, you should always contact your physical therapist if your pain abruptly increases or if you develop a new type or source of pain. You may be referred back to your physician for further evaluation and treatment. In some cases, your physical therapy can be continued while this treatment is being received, or your physical therapy may be temporarily discontinued until your new symptoms improve.
Who decides when my physical therapy treatment is over?
Your physical therapist designs a treatment program to help you reach specific goals. Your progress is measured as you continue through the treatment program, and you and your physical therapist determine together when satisfactory progress is being made and when you can be discharged from treatment. Continuing to practice what you have learned is important for long-term results. In some cases, your physician will be consulted. However, the decision that therapy goals have been accomplished is generally between you and your therapist.
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