What is physical therapy?
Physical therapy is one of the most common therapeutic processes because it works in a wide variety of situations. Someone recovering from a heart attack, for example, may use physical therapy to help become strong enough for regular exercise. It is also a go-to intervention after a fracture or joint replacement surgery.
The therapists at Move Well MD work with patients to improve their flexibility so they can manage everyday tasks. Better mobility will improve fitness levels and help reduce pain at the same time.
People tend to associate physical therapy with exercise but it's more than that. It’s the whole package when it comes to healing promotion. Therapists do:
- Manual manipulation
- Patient education
- Ultrasound
- Electrical stimulation
They also use first aid techniques like ice and heat to reduce inflammation before and after exercise.
What kinds of patients need physical therapy?
There are few limitations because most people can benefit from it regardless of their current medical problems. Physical therapists, along with practitioners such as Dr. Gruen, develop customized plans based on the mobility levels and needs of each individual patient. Some common problems that might send someone to a physical therapist include:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Joint pain
- Orthopedic injury
- Orthopedic surgery
- Cardiac rehabilitation
- Cancer
- Wound care
Physical therapy is one piece of a care plan designed to improve mobility and restore health.
What should patients expect from physical therapy at Move Well MD?
It starts with the Move Well MD therapist doing an examination to get a feel for the patient's mobility challenges and to discuss symptoms. From there, they establish goals based on the information provided to them, the exam and the patient's expectations. The first step is almost always to manage the pain and any inflammation that is affecting movement.
Physical therapy does involve exercise too. It starts at the practice with the therapist helping joints move or providing support as the patient does basic stretches. Over time, as they become stronger, the routine will expand to provide more challenges.
A few things to expect include:
- Stretches
- Core exercise
- Weightlifting
- Walking
Patient education is a big part of physical therapy, so the patient learns how to move without aggravating an injury.
At Move Well MD in Manhattan located in the downtown financial district of lower Manhattan, NY, NY 10038, we use an integrated system of care to relieve pain, improve range of motion and help you to move well again! We are just a few short path train stops away from Hoboken, NJ and Jersey City, NJ.
