What Do You Do in Physical Therapy? Everything to Expect

Did you suffer an injury or have an illness that affects your functional mobility? You may need to see a physical therapist. If you were referred to a physical therapist, you may not know what to expect.

Ideally, you should be ready for your first psychical therapy appointment. What do you do in physical therapy? Read this guide to learn everything you need to know about what to expect from physical therapy.

What Is Physical Therapy

Physical therapy aims to promote recovery in patients who suffer a soft-tissue joint injury. It also seeks to promote recovery in patients who underwent surgery or had an illness. A physical therapist’s goal is to help patients prevent further injuries.

In physical therapy, the patient will undergo different exercises. The exercises will be part of the patient’s individualized plan. In the initial appointment, the therapist will conduct an evaluation. You can click here for more information.

Preparing for the Initial Evaluation

During the initial evaluation, the therapist will lay the groundwork for the patient’s treatment. Expect the therapist to go over your complete history. For example, if you have a knee injury, the therapist will ask about the origin and the severity of the pain.

The physical therapist will ask you about your goals. You may want to run a marathon or be able to bend down without problems. Whatever the case may be, your physical therapist will work with you to help you achieve your goals.

During this evaluation, the therapist will assess your functional mobility. To assess it, the therapist will go over your strength, flexibility, and balance.

Because you’re going to move around, it’s best to wear comfortable clothing. The clothes you wear must allow you to move freely. Gym clothes are ideal for physical therapy sessions.

The Physical Therapy Diagnosis Process

The physical therapist will make a diagnosis. The physical therapy diagnosis encompasses the patient’s functional limitations. The therapist uses the diagnosis as a treatment guide.

Your physical therapist will work with your doctor. Together, they’ll help you get back to an optimal state of function.

What Do You Do in Physical Therapy

You may be asking now, “What happens in physical therapy?” You’ll undergo different activities based on your goals and abilities. You can undergo balance and gait training.

You may also undergo exercises to improve your strength and range of motion. Muscle retraining may be part of the activities too.

If you have pain, the physical therapist may teach you pain management strategies. It’s also common for patients to undergo heat and cold therapy and massages for pain relief.

Do you believe you can benefit by seeing a physical therapist? Look here for more information.

Seeing a Physical Therapist

If you suffered an injury or have an illness that affects your body, make an appointment with a physical therapist. What do you do in physical therapy? There’s no need to be nervous.

The physical therapist will conduct an initial evaluation. The findings will be used to create a treatment plan for you to help you recover.