Physical therapists (PTís, called physiotherapists in much of Europe) and physical therapy assistants (PTA's) are the allied health professionals who examine, test and treat persons to enhance their maximum physical activity. Their goal is to improve how an individual functions at work and home, and promote overall fitness and health.
PT's and PT assistants work with patients to help them regain motor control, strength, physical conditioning and mobility, and return to independent living. They provide services that help restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities of patients suffering from injuries or disease. Treatment often includes exercise for patients who have been immobilized and lack flexibility, strength, coordination/balance or endurance. PTís also use electrical stimulation, hot packs or cold compresses, and ultrasound to relieve pain and reduce swelling, and may use traction or deep-tissue massage to relieve pain. PTís also may teach patients to use assistive and adaptive devices such as crutches, prostheses, and wheelchairs. They may also show patients exercises to do at home to expedite their recovery and enable independence.
See also the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) web site.
Copyright by Jack Winters.