Physical therapy serves two purposes: (1) It is a nonsurgical treatment for patients who sustain injuries, suffer from disease, or have had surgery; and (2) it is a proactive approach to get your body more fit and strong, especially when training for a specific sport or the military.
Physical therapists are movement experts who conduct therapy sessions for patients, showing them how and when to perform certain exercises and stretches. Let’s talk about what’s involved in physical therapy, and where you can go in Watertown for world-class therapy sessions.
What Does Physical Therapy Involve?
Some things you might expect during your physical therapy sessions include the following:
- Physical manipulation – Your physical therapist will apply gentle pressure to move and guide your body toward certain positions.
- Exercise – This includes stretching and movement regimens that can help you get stronger and more flexible.
- Electrical stimulation – Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS, relieves pain by interfering with the nerves sending pain signals to the brain.
- Joint mobilization – This part of physical therapy relieves pain, muscle spasms, and tension, and it improves joint flexibility.
- Temperature therapy – This can be heat therapy or cold therapy, depending on what your condition requires. Cold therapy constricts the blood vessels and relieves pain, whereas heat therapy opens up the blood vessels and relaxes the muscles.
- Traction therapy – This type of physical therapy relieves pain, decreases nerve pressure, and realigns the spine.
- Ultrasound therapy – A physical therapist can apply ultrasound to deliver heat to the area through sound waves (ultrasound).
- Sports-specific or targeted training – Your physical therapist will implement methods to help improve your performance and technique, tailored to you.
Benefits of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help to:
- Provide a conservative alternative to surgery
- Regain muscle strength lost because of a long period of rest (such as due to injury), pain, or surgery
- Relieve pain and stiffness in muscles and joints
- Facilitate healing and recovery necessary due to injury or disease
- Improve range of motion and flexibility
- Boost stability, balance, and coordination
- Restore full mobility and function of the body
- Explain how to continue taking care of yourself, especially after the sessions are complete
As for athletes and members of the military who undergo specific training, physical therapy can help them to:
- Monitor their fitness level
- Improve their form and technique
- Boost their physical performance and capabilities
- Receive nutritional counseling
- Gain muscle strength and control
- Develop their agility, endurance, and speed
What Can a Physical Therapist Do for Me?
Before anything else, your therapist will assess your current physical condition. They may look at your medical information and history and ask about your lifestyle, short-term goals, and long-term goals. They will also conduct an exam to test your capabilities, such as your:
- Muscle strength
- Flexibility and range of motion
- Stability and balance
- Form, technique, and performance
Keep in mind that physical therapy may take time, especially if you’re recovering from a severe injury or healing from major surgery. You also need to exercise discipline and motivation. Don’t hesitate to tell your therapist if you get tired or if something hurts.
Physical Therapy in Watertown, NY
You can always benefit from physical therapy. But before you attend a therapy session, it’s important to know the benefits you can gain from it to set your own goals.
If you’re looking for a reputable and effective physical therapy clinic in the Watertown area, look no further than North Country Orthopaedic Group. We have a team of highly trained and experienced physical therapists who can give you the comprehensive care you need to get stronger.
If you would like to find out more about us or our services, call our friendly staff today at (315) 782-1650 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
