Physical therapy is a crucial component of treatment plans used to recover from overuse injuries, trauma, and chronic conditions. In particular, physical therapy is a vital component of treatment in the field of orthopedics. Countless studies show that it is useful in rehabilitating patients with orthopedic issues, such as arthritis, fractures, back pain, and scoliosis.
Without the proper interventions, injuries and illnesses will not heal well. This can adversely affect your range of movement, function, and flexibility. Read on to learn how physical therapy and orthopedics are connected.
Orthopedic Health Conditions
Orthopedics is the branch of medicine that studies the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases that impact the musculoskeletal system. Conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, and fractures are just some of the diseases covered under general orthopedics.
Pain in specific areas, such as the hands, knees, feet, and back, are common orthopedic complaints. In addition to pain, patients may also experience inflammation, stiffness, instability, reduced range of motion, and decrease flexibility. When you cannot control your symptoms, these can hinder you from doing your regular activities.
Orthopedic conditions develop or occur due to many factors such as:
- Accidents or trauma
- Sports-related injuries
- Aging
- Genetic factors
- Overuse
- Work-related
Orthopedic doctors and surgeons are health care providers who specialize in orthopedics. They can help you find a treatment for your musculoskeletal problems. They also work with other specialists, like physical therapists, as necessary.
Physical Therapy And Orthopedics
The primary objective of physical therapy is to assist in the patient’s recovery from an injury or surgery. Surgeries and musculoskeletal injuries can significantly impact your mobility. You may have to immobilize certain parts of your body to facilitate healing before you can begin moving again. This affects your range of motion, flexibility, stability, and strength.
To restore musculoskeletal function, a physical therapist can evaluate your condition, assess your strength and needs, and plan a customized physical therapy program for you. Likewise, physical therapy can also minimize pain, further improving your quality of life.
Your Orthopedic Physical Therapy Program
Your physical therapy program will depend on several factors, including the affected part of your body, the severity of your condition, and your current strength, among others. You may start by slowly increasing your range of motion and flexibility.
As you regain body control, you may transition to strengthening exercises. These exercises will help you regain muscle strength to support your bones and joints. Examples of strengthening exercises include cycling, lifting weights, and resistance training. Restoring your strength is vital for you to perform your daily tasks with ease and to prevent future injuries.
Low-impact aerobic exercise can improve your circulation, which is useful for chronic pain and stiffness. With improved blood flow, more nutrients can reach the painful parts of your body. This type of exercise is ideal for patients who had surgery or have joint disease.
There are different physical therapy techniques available to cater to every patient’s specific needs. Your therapist will teach you the correct way to perform these exercises, so you can do them on your own at home. Through this, you can avoid further damage to your joints, muscles, or bones. Therapists can also use exercise equipment and other tools to guide your movements.
Multi-Specialty Orthopedic Care In Watertown, New York
Orthopedic conditions and issues can significantly affect your quality of life. For top-notch orthopedic services, our multi-specialty medical team at North Country Orthopaedic Group strives to give you patient-centered care, from diagnosis to treatment.
Our providers specialize in sports medicine, general orthopedics, pediatric orthopedics, and the spine to address and mitigate your health concerns. For questions and concerns, you can call (315) 782-1650, or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
