Millions of Americans suffer from back pain. For some, the pain is mild and infrequent; for others, back pain is a chronic and debilitating condition, preventing them from performing everyday activities and severely affecting their quality of life. Although there are many ways to treat chronic back pain, including medication and surgery, physical therapy is the ideal solution for individuals who wish to improve or correct their condition through effective, noninvasive, and natural procedures.

Education

Although many people know what it’s like to experience back pain, few of them are able to accurately identify the source of the pain. It is a common myth that all back pain comes from some type of physical exertion or injury such as bending the back in an awkward position, lifting something too heavy, or pulling a muscle. Although these are certainly factors in the incidence of back pain, they are not the only culprits, or even the most common ones. One of the roles of physical therapy is to educate the patient in the causes for back pain so he or she will be better equipped to prevent future episodes.

Many times, back pain is caused by poor posture, and like any bad habit, can be difficult to correct. Physical therapists help patients become more aware of their posture so that they can self-correct as necessary. Individuals who spend many hours per day in a sitting position such as those who have desk jobs, for instance, are particularly vulnerable for lower back pain. Physical therapists can help these patients learn to sit up straighter at their desks rather than slouching and to perform bending and extension exercises designed to prevent and relieve pain. The therapist may also train the patient in the use of assistive devices such as special pillows, or lumbar rolls, designed to help maintain a natural curvature of the back while in a sitting position.

Manual Therapy

Like any form of physical therapy, the goal of manual therapy is to reduce pain and increase mobility. As its name implies, manual therapy is administered by the hands instead of by machine or device. For example, the therapist may apply pressure to certain areas to stimulate the tissue and break up myofascial adhesions that can cause pain and tension. This procedure is often referred to as soft tissue mobilization, or STM. Other manual therapy techniques such as strain-counterstrain, joint mobilization, and muscle energy techniques (MET’S) involve the therapist taking hold of the patient and moving his or her muscles and/or joints in a way that gradually increases flexibility and provides pain-relieving resistance.

Exercise

Exercise plays an important role in physical therapy, but such a routine cannot begin until a patient’s pain has been adequately managed. Once this has occurred, the therapist can work with the individual to develop a regimen involving both aerobic and strengthening exercises. Aerobic exercises, such as walking or bicycling, not only help stimulate the tissue in the affected area, but also allow important nutrients to reach the area, helping it to heal and restore itself. Typically, these types of activities are prescribed for approximately thirty minutes a few times per week. Exercises designed to strengthen both the back, the legs, and the abdomen are also recommended. The stronger the back is, the better-equipped it will be to tolerate certain postures and activities. Furthermore, leg strength also plays an important role in prevention since strong legs can assist the back in lifting and bending activities. Exercises designed to strengthen the abdomen can help the patient maintain proper balance and posture, minimizing episodic back pain.

Passive Modalities

The term “passive modalities” refers to any physical therapy technique in which the patient does not participate actively. Common passive modalities used to treat back pain include the use of hot and cold compresses, ultrasound therapy, and electric stimulation. Although these methods certainly provide some benefits, especially in the form of pain relief, and are therefore quite appealing to patients, in order for long-term benefits to be realized, passive modalities should be combined with active modalities such as exercise and posture maintenance.

If you suffer from back pain on a regular basis, don’t continue to let it interfere with your daily activities or quality of life. Over-the counter, or even prescription medication, is often ineffective and even addictive; thankfully, it is not the only option. Physical therapy can offer specific treatments targeted towards reducing pain and increasing flexibility and movement, thereby allowing you to enjoy life by doing the things you love without the pain.

References

1.    Physical Therapy Programs for Low Back Pain. Spine Universe. Retrieved from http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/back-pain/physical-therapy-program-low-back-pain.
2.    Specific Manual Physical Therapy Techniques. Spine-Health. Retrieved from http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/physical-therapy/specific-manual-physical-therapy-techniques.

Physical therapy is one of the most rapidly expanding fields in healthcare today. It should come as no surprise then that it is a field rife with new and exciting technological advancements that enable patients to make physical gains that were inconceivable just decades ago. If the past is any indication of the future, we can expect to see even more innovation for the field of physical therapy in the years to come.

Computerized Exercise Equipment

One of the most widespread advancements in physical therapy technology today is the use of computerized exercise equipment that can recognize a patient, recall his or her treatment plan, and evaluate his or progress. Though these machines cannot take the place of a licensed physical therapist, they can certainly make his job a lot easier and help patients take more active and independent roles in the progression of their rehabilitation plan.  For example, a patient who is working on leg-strengthening may step on to a treadmill and type in a password; immediately, the treadmill retrieves the patient’s individual information including the specific exercise regimen prescribed for the day.  The patient can then quickly begin his therapy session, completing the time and distance requirements at the speed and intensity recommended by the therapist.

Motion Analysis and Capture

A technology with far-reaching implications, motion analysis and capture, sometimes referred to as mocap, is frequently used by the film industry to create 3-D movie characters. The medical industry has found ways to put this relatively new technology to even better uses, including helping physical therapists evaluate a patient’s movements and balance. Motion analysis and capture technology is often used in stroke rehabilitation to establish a starting point for the patient, design a rehabilitation program, and evaluate his or her progress. Through the use of special sensors or platforms, the therapist can track a patient’s gait, movement, and balance, transfer them to image or video files, and then watch and analyze them as many times as necessary to make a proper determination of the patient’s current functionality and design an individualized treatment plan for the patient’s recovery.

Robotic Therapy

A new and growing branch of physical therapy, robotic therapy offers rehab patients capabilities once thought to be only possible in movies. Although prosthetics have been around for decades and have provided amazing benefits to individuals who have lost an arm or a leg, robotic prosthetics offer much more than just a helping hand. The newest concepts in this field can actually deliver sensory input to the patient’s brain just as a real arm or leg would do. And robotic therapy is not just for prosthetics either. New robotics technology for stroke victims helps them regain mobility in their arms through an interactive video-game-like device which prompts the patient to move their hand in a certain direction and even provides them with sensory prompts as needed. Research and experimentation is ongoing to determine the implications robotics therapy can have for other areas of physical therapy as well.

Anti-Gravity Treadmills

Not surprisingly, this gravity-defying contraption was first conceptualized by NASA and was intended to enable astronauts to exercise in space. What NASA didn’t realize at the time was that this new technology would have important implications for the field of physical therapy as well. The concept is actually very simple; through an air-compressed device at the base of the treadmill, the patient is allowed to relieve a significant percentage of his body weight, allowing exercises such as walking and jogging to be much less strenuous, an important consideration for someone learning how to walk again after a surgery or injury. It also helps patients resume their normal gait much quicker than they would be able to otherwise, lessening the chance that they will develop a limp (something that can be very hard to reverse). Although these treadmills are not yet widely available, they are projected to become more commonplace in the years to come.

The newest technological advancements available to physical therapists and their patients are truly changing the face of physical therapy. Medical universities and corporations continue to conduct research and develop concepts that will continue to test the limits of what physical therapy can offer patients in terms of pain relief, independence, and increased mobility.

References

Anti-Gravity Treadmill Helps Injured get Moving Again. Denverpost.com. Retrieved from http://www.denverpost.com/rss/ci_17107585?source=rss.
Physical therapy: Technology on PT duty. DOTmed.com. Retrieved from http://www.dotmed.com/news/story/12652/.
Robotic Therapy Helps Stroke Patients Regain Function. MIT News. Retrieved from http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2010/stroke-therapy-0419.html.
Stroke Therapy: New Trends, Technology, and Tactics. Physical Therapy Products. Retrieved from http://www.ptproductsonline.com/issues/articles/2009-01_06.asp

Physical therapy is not just for injuries anymore. One of the reasons that physical therapy, sometimes referred to as PT, is such a rapidly growing field is the fact that it is so versatile. Physical therapy can be beneficial to patients of all ages, those with a range of medical conditions from arthritis to cancer, as well as those recovering from surgeries, accidents, or sports injuries. Despite the specific reason for physical therapy, generally speaking, the overall goal remains the same: to help the patient recover any lost abilities, become more mobile and independent, and eliminate or minimize pain.

Orthopedic Physical Therapy

Perhaps the most well-known division of physical therapy, orthopedic physical therapy is an area of PT devoted to treating conditions related to the muscular skeletal system including muscles, bones, and joints. This type of treatment is geared toward any individual suffering from conditions such as whiplash, arthritis, herniated discs, neck or back pain as well as sports, work, or post-surgery conditions. Orthopedic physical therapists use a variety of strategies, namely manual physical therapy—a technique in which the therapist uses his own hands to move the affected areas in ways that will flex the muscles and joints to lessen pain and improve function. In addition to traditional physical therapy methods, alternative techniques such as electrical stimulation are sometimes used in orthopedic physical therapy.

Pediatric Physical Therapy

Pediatric physical therapy refers to physical therapy administered to babies, preschoolers, children, and adolescents. These youngsters may require physical therapy for a variety of reasons including congenital disorders or conditions, medical ailments acquired during the early years, or injuries sustained during an accident. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, the goal of pediatric physical therapy is to help the child reach his physical potential in terms of mobility and self-sufficiency. Young patients are typically referred to pediatric physical therapy specialists who are trained in the specific treatment techniques proven to be most beneficial to children and young adults. Pediatric physical therapists often work closely with the patient’s family and school to develop a treatment plan that will help the child perform at an optimal level both at home and in the classroom. Depending on the type and severity of the child’s condition, he or she may require physical therapy for a short period of time, or the care may be ongoing.

Geriatric Physical Therapy

Geriatric physical therapy refers to the physical treatment of elderly patients. Although geriatric physical therapy often helps older patients battle diseases and medical conditions common in this age-group such as bladder issues, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and arthritis among many others, it also helps them cope with the natural aging process. The goal of geriatric physical therapy is to help patients improve and maintain their mobility, thereby enabling them to maintain some degree of independence and autonomy as they age. Depending on the particular condition being treated, the patient may be referred to a specialist who is more knowledgeable and experienced in the treatment of the specific disease or disorder.

Neurological Physical Therapy

Neurological therapy is a branch of physical therapy involving the treatment of individuals affected by neurological disorders such as ALS or Alzheimer’s disease, or those who have experienced a stroke or serious head or back injury affecting the brain or spinal cord. Typically, neurological patients suffer some degree of mobility impairment including a loss of balance and agility. The treatment techniques used in this area of physical therapy are intended to help patients improve their movement ability by correcting or improving physical deficits related to their conditions.

Cardio-Pulmonary Rehabilitation

A relatively small field of physical therapy, cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation focuses on treating patients with medical conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, cardio-pulmonary disease, and those recovering from cardio-pulmonary surgery. This type of physical therapy uses alternative treatments to help these patients recover some degree of respiratory or cardiovascular function. Methods of cardio-pulmonary physical therapy may include certain breathing techniques and physical exercises designed to increase air-flow, strength, and stamina. While these strategies may not be able to cure the patient’s disorder, they can certainly help the patient improve function and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Once thought to be reserved for patients suffering from conditions or injuries directly affecting the muscles, bones, and joints, physical therapy has broadened its scope to include the treatment of just about any disorder or ailment that affects mobility, either directly or indirectly. Today, licensed physical therapists specialize in a certain field to learn the most effective techniques to treat specific conditions. These experts practice PT in a variety of different settings including hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation facilities, private practices, and even in-home care settings. Thanks to the wide-spread availability of specialized treatment options, physical therapy patients now have access to high-quality, individualized care designed to help them meet their personal treatment goals.

References

American Association of Physical Therapy. http://www.apta.org//AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home

Becoming a certified professional therapy professional is no small accomplishment. Whether you have finished your associate’s degree as a physical therapy assistant or have continued your education to become a licensed physical therapist, it’s important to choose a work environment that suits your personality, desired work schedule and income, and professional goals. With a degree in physical therapy, there are several work settings available to you. Choosing the right one will result in greater personal satisfaction and ensure that you are able to offer your very best to the important and growing field of physical therapy.

The Nursing Home

Deciding whether a nursing home setting is right for you may require a bit of introspection. There are certainly advantages and disadvantages to this work environment, some of which may differ depending on your individual preferences and personality traits. Obviously, you will be working with the elderly, so you need to examine any prior experiences you’ve had working with geriatric patients and determine whether they were positive and satisfying. Some people who have worked in nursing homes report it to be a depressing environment while others enjoy the opportunity to help elderly people who are often lonely and more than happy to start a conversation or make a new friend. Volunteering at a local facility may give you a more accurate perception of what the work environment is like and help you decide whether it’s a good fit for you. Another factor to consider—on average, physical therapy professionals working in nursing homes make slightly more per year than those working in hospitals or private doctors’ offices.

The Hospital or Rehabilitation Facility

As a physical therapist in a hospital setting, you will likely have a wider range of patients to work with. You may work with a pediatric patient one day and a geriatric oncology patient the next. If you like variety, this may be the job for you, but keep in mind that this particular setting will require more knowledge and flexibility. You will have to be quick on your feet and ready to switch gears at a moment’s notice. Moreover, this influx of patients may prevent you from developing the kinds of therapist-patient relationships that may be possible in a nursing home setting. Working at a hospital, however, may provide the added benefit of access to newer technologies; hospitals are usually better funded, and therefore, better equipped than nursing homes.

Private Practice

If you are a licensed physical therapist, you have the option of opening your own practice whereas physical therapy assistants have the opportunity to work for a therapist in a private doctor’s office. A private practice presents unique environmental factors to consider. Whereas you will likely see less patients every day, which may be a plus or a minus depending on your personal preferences, you will also work with a smaller number of colleagues which may allow you to develop stronger professional relationships. Working in a private practice may also give you the opportunity to specialize in a certain area of physical therapy such as sports medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics, etc. At the same time, this setting also offers less variety in terms of the types of patients you will see and the duties you will be responsible for daily.

Home Health Setting

Physical therapists who work in home health care settings may travel from house to house caring for multiple patients at a time, or they may work full-time for a family or individual on a long-term basis. Certainly, this intimate setting will allow you to build stronger relationships with your patients, but depending on your personality, this level of intimacy may be uncomfortable for you. You should also consider that you will have more contact with the patient’s family than you would in other settings, a factor that would require greater communication and social skills. As a therapist or assistant in a home health care setting, you will likely work alone or with one other health care professional. This will allow you to become more independent, but also require you to be more responsible and self-sufficient as well.

Conclusion

Physical therapy professionals are in high demand and have a great deal of flexibility in terms of working environments, salaries, and schedules. Making sure your work setting is compatible with your individual characteristics and job expectations is the first step in what will surely be a long and satisfying career!

References

Physical Therapy Assistants and Aides. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos167.htm.

Alzheimer’s disease can be a cruel and slow demise and one that is generally considered progressive and irreversible. Families of Alzheimer’s patients will inevitably face some very difficult decisions as they attempt to provide the best possible care for their loved ones. As the memory and mental health of the individual deteriorates, physical well-being may be the least of the family’s concern. However, physical therapy should not be dismissed; instead,  it should be seen as a vital component of an overall treatment program designed to rehabilitate the patient not only physically, but mentally as well.

Exercise

Although exercise has long been acknowledged as a way of preventing dementia, it is now being recognized as a way of slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease as well. A study presented at the 2008 International Conference on Alzheimer’s disease reported that Alzheimer’s patients who routinely participate in an exercise program show more brain activity in the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for memory. Furthermore, it has been shown that the aerobic exercise needed to achieve the desired results need not be strenuous. This is an important consideration for elderly patients who may not be in the best physical health. Alzheimer’s patients often lose motor control and balance in addition to memory loss, making them particularly susceptible to falls. As part of the patient’s physical therapy regimen, a trained physical therapist can prescribe exercises targeted to improve balance and motor skills, lessening the chance that the patient will trip or bump into something. As the disease progresses, the physical therapist may begin to administer manual therapy techniques including bending and flexing the patient’s muscles and joints to prevent atrophy. Caregivers can also be trained to administer exercise therapy at home to increase the likelihood of it making a substantial difference in the patient’s physical and mental functioning.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of physical therapy still in practice today. Considered by some in the Western world to be a “voodoo” alternative therapy, acupuncture has a long and reputable history amongst doctors and healers in the East, and is gaining more credibility in the United States as a viable treatment alternative to sufferers of all sorts of conditions. Acupuncture is used in combination with other more traditional methods to treat some of the mental health side effects associated with Alzheimer’s. Many Alzheimer’s patients become increasingly moody and aggressive as their dementia progresses; acupuncture has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, factors that can significantly affect an individual’s mood and overall sense of well-being. Moreover, preliminary research suggests that acupuncture may also increase patient’s cognitive functioning, motor control, and verbal skills.  Although more research is needed to confirm these findings, they certainly offer hope for the millions of Alzheimer’s patients for whom traditional medicine has been unsuccessful.

Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

A relatively new and controversial treatment, Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation, or TENS, works by transmitting electrical currents into the body through electrodes attached to the skin. Although generally used as a way of helping to alleviate pain, TENS has recently gained some attention for its potential implications for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Some small studies have suggested that TENS can provide several benefits for patients including memory, mood, and sleep enhancement.  The early results have been convincing enough to prompt more research into this potentially groundbreaking new technique.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is a branch of physical therapy that relies on manually applying pressure to certain parts of the body to increase relaxation and relieve tension. Although just about anyone could benefit from a good massage, Alzheimer’s patients appear to respond especially well to the treatment. As these individuals often experience moodiness and agitation, the touch of a skilled massage therapist can alter the individual’s emotional state and promote a sense of calm within.

Although physical therapy is certainly not a cure for Alzheimer’s and it cannot prevent the disease from worsening, it can certainly slow down the process. Different methods of physical therapy may be more advantageous than others for certain individuals depending on their symptoms and the progression of the disease. A licensed physical therapist can help families determine which treatment program will result in greater gains for their loved one, so that he or she can experience the greatest level of independence and best quality of life possible.

References

Alzheimer’s Disease. University of Maryland Medical Center. Retrieved from http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/alzheimers-disease-000005.htm.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Acupuncture. Acupuncture Today. Retrieved from http://acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=27681.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation for Alzheimer’s and Dementia. AgingCare.com. Retrieved from http://www.agingcare.com/Featured-Stories/143469/physical-speech-therapy-alzheimers-dementia.htm.

Job Overview

Physical therapy professionals are involved in the care of patients who suffer from certain ailments which affect their ability to function physically. These conditions may be congenital, developmental, or they may develop as a result of surgery or injury. A physical therapist assistant provides aid as needed to a licensed physical therapist in a clinical or home health setting designed to help patients either recover from their conditions, or at the very least, become more mobile and independent.

Depending on the lead therapist’s preferences, this assistance may include interacting with the patient to help him or her perform the prescribed exercises, or the type of assistance may be less hands-on such as monitoring and documenting the patient’s reactions and progress. To become a physical therapy assistant, one much complete a program of study culminating in an associate’s degree in physical therapy and a certificate to practice physical therapy in the state in which the individual plans to work. Physical therapy assistants must have good social skills, be physically fit, and be able to perform certain job-specific tasks.

Qualifications

In order to be a physical therapist assistant, you must:

• have a minimum of an associate’s degree from an accredited school

• pass a test to receive your certification as a physical therapy assistant

• be physically adept enough to perform tasks such as lifting, bending, and standing upright for long periods of time

• have good social skills and conduct yourself in a manner that is caring, compassionate, and respectful

• be willing and able to follow directions and take orders

Duties

Although the duties of a physical therapy assistant may fluctuate in accordance with the particular setting and terms of employment, generally speaking, physical therapy assistants will be required to:

• Work collaboratively with the physical therapist, aides, primary caregivers, administrators and patients to develop and maintain treatment plans.

• Instruct the patient on how to perform exercises properly.

• Help patients position themselves correctly in order to perform the required exercises.

• Help the patient move on and off of exercise equipment and transport them to and from the gym.

• Act as a coach and motivator to assist patients in achieving their therapy goals.

• Evaluate the patient’s progress and assess the effects of certain exercises to determine whether they are benefiting the patient.

• Monitor the patient while performing exercises to ensure the patient’s safety.

• Keep an accurate record of the exercises the patient performed, the number of repetitions, and how long the exercise was performed.

• Help determine what type/size supportive devices the patient needs (i.e. braces, crutches, prostheses, etc).

• Administer and/or guide the patient in participating in treatments such as massage, heat and light therapy, as well as aquatic and electric modality treatments.

• Communicate with the patient’s family and/or caregivers to convey important information regarding the treatment plan as well as any improvements or setbacks the patient has experienced.

Schedule

The schedules of physical therapy assistants vary widely. Depending on your place of employment and position, you may work a traditional 9-5 schedule, or you may work part-time or on the evenings and weekends.  Typically, physical therapy assistants working in hospitals and nursing homes will rotate shifts while those who work in outpatient clinics may work primarily during the weekdays.

Salary

Depending on the region where you are working and how many years of experience you have, your salary as a physical therapy assistant may range from $28,500 to $63,830 with the average salary being around $46,000 a year. Physical therapist assistants working in home health care and nursing home settings tend to make slightly more than their colleagues who work in hospitals, doctors’ offices, and clinics.

Advancement

There are many opportunities for advancement in the field of physical therapy. With additional schooling, some physical therapy assistants go on to become licensed physical therapists. Others decide to specialize in a certain field such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or cardiopulmonary therapy. There are also opportunities for hospital and clinic administrative positions for those physical therapy associates interested in this line of work.

Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook for job opportunities in physical therapy is very good, and is expected to grow faster than the average career field in 2011. Because of changes in many insurance policies, physical therapy will become more available and affordable for many people, thus resulting in a higher demand for physical therapy services. In addition, as the baby-boomers become older, a greater percentage of the population will require the types of treatment offered by physical therapy professionals. As students and potential employees become aware of this growth, however, the search for jobs in this field will become very competitive.

References

Summary Report for Physical Therapy Assistants. O*Net Online. Retrieved from
http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/31-2021.00.
Physical Therapy Assistants and Aides. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved from
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos167.htm

Congratulations! You’ve made the choice to enter the rapidly growing field of physical therapy. With a job outlook of very good as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and competitive salary and benefits packages, it’s safe to say you’ve made the right choice. Now, comes the hard part—choosing a school and program that fits your personality, academic needs, and long-term career goals. This is an important decision that may determine some major aspects of your life—where you live, what type of environment you will work in, how you spend the majority of your day, and how much money you’ll bring home—so it’s not one to take lightly. Here are some key questions to consider when making a decision:

What are your short and long-term goals?

Do you want to be a physical therapy aide, associate, or licensed physical therapist? Are your short and long-term goals similar, or do you want to leave your options open for future advancement? The answers to these questions will help you decide what type of program and school is best-suited to your chosen career path.

For example, if you’d like to become a physical therapy aide, you may wish to attend a few courses at a community college to get a feel for what the career field is like, and then contact some nursing homes or doctors’ offices to inquire about possible on-the-job training opportunities. On the other hand, if you wish to pursue a career as a physical therapy assistant or licensed physical therapist, you will need to enroll in an accredited program at a community college or university.

What can you afford?

No matter what your specific career goals are, you’ll want to ensure that you attend the most reputable, top-quality school you can get into for the money. The better the school is, the more appealing you will be to potential employers. At the same time, you will need to weigh this benefit against the amount of money you will need to borrow to pay your tuition. Consider how much money you will likely make when you graduate and determine how much you will be able to devote to monthly loan payments. Many schools have financial aid advisors who can help you make these important decisions.

Do you prefer a big or small school?

Although many prospective students tend to think bigger is better, this is not always the case. There are many reputable schools that offer smaller class sizes and more individual instruction for those who desire this type of setting. If you don’t feel comfortable in large groups or feel that you may need one-on-one instruction from your professors, then a small school may be right for you. On the other hand, if you like to blend in to the crowd and can learn fairly independently, then you may want to consider a school with a larger student body.

Does the school match your personality and individual preferences?

There is more to choosing a school that fits your personality than simply choosing a large or small one. The best—and perhaps only—w ay to ensure that a particular school is a good match for you is by actually visiting the school and observing some classes. Many schools offer tours for prospective students. Call the school’s main office and make an appointment if necessary. Plan ahead and make a list of things you’d like to observe about the school. For instance, are the other students friendly? Do they appear studious and serious about their career goals? What are the professors like? Do they invite questions and student discussion, or is lecturing the most popular instructional method? Weigh your findings against what you know about your own characteristics and learning styles to determine if the school environment is right for you.

Do you want to attend classes on campus or online?

Yes, believe it or not, there are online physical therapy degree programs, and the idea of studying at home is certainly appealing, but there are some important things to consider when deciding whether to telecommute to class. Physical therapy by its very nature is a hands-on career field. Keep this important point in mind, and decide whether you will be able to learn the interactive nature of the job through a computer screen. It’s also important to consider that many potential employers may prefer a candidate with the kind of hands-on experience you can only get from an on-campus experience. On the other hand, if you are home-bound for any reason and an online school is your only option, there are many accredited programs to consider. Before choosing an online school, make sure that it offers the particular program you are looking for. For example, Penn Foster Career School offers certificate programs for those wishing to become physical therapy aides, while A.T. Still University of Health Sciences offers a full doctoral program for those interested in becoming licensed physical therapists.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve made your career choice and considered all of your educational options, it’s time to choose a school and program that will result in a satisfying academic experience and the credentials you need to make a difference in the growing field of physical therapy, whether you choose to work in a nursing home, hospital, home health care setting, or private practice.

References

Physical Therapy Assistants and Aides. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos167.htm.

Although traditionally, physical therapy was recommended for those patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions, physical therapy now offers treatment options for individuals affected by a variety of disabilities and disorders including neurological and cardiopulmonary conditions among many others.  According to the American Physical Therapy Association, most states allow individuals to select their own therapist, even without a doctor’s referral. If you’ve chosen to pursue physical therapy as a primary treatment method or as an enhancement to your current care plan, there are some things you should consider before choosing a specialist.

• Check with your insurance company. Certain insurance policies have different regulations regarding what type of care you can be reimbursed for and who can administer it. Unless you want to get stuck with the bill, you will be well-advised to check with your particular company to see if they cover the type of physical therapy you require, and if they have a list of providers you are required to choose from. If so, you will be limited in your freedom to choose your own therapist, but you can still work within these parameters to ensure that you receive the best care possible.

• Find a specialist. Not all physical therapists are alike. Some specialize in treating certain age groups (i.e. pediatrics and geriatrics) while others specialize in specific medical conditions (i.e. orthopedic, neurological, cardiology, etc.). Therefore, it’s important to make sure you choose a therapist who has experience working with individuals with problems similar to your own.

• Choose your setting. Although we typically think of physical therapy being administered in a rehabilitation facility, there are actually a variety of different settings in which patients can receive care. For instance, you may choose to visit a private doctor’s office, clinic, hospital, or even receive your treatments in the comfort of your own home. If the setting in which you practice your physical therapy is an important consideration for you, then you will need to choose your therapist accordingly. Not all therapists make home visits or have their own practices, for instance.

• Do your research. Before choosing a physical therapist, do some informal research to ensure that you select one who is knowledgeable, experienced, and has a good track-record with patients. There are several ways to find out about a therapist’s reputation and background. You can begin by asking around; your family and friends may be able to refer you to a therapist they’ve seen and had a positive experience with. You can also ask your general practitioner for a referral. This may be a good option for you if you have been seeing your primary care doctor for a while and trust his opinion. In addition to word-of-mouth methods, you can also go online to find a therapist’s credentials, experience, and even individual patient reviews.

• Go in for a consultation. Like most things in life, you’ll never really know whether a physical therapist is right for you until you see for yourself. Some physical therapists offer a preliminary consultation completely free of charge. When you go in for this initial visit, make it your goal to observe the therapist’s demeanor and personality. These characteristics will be important in ensuring that you will be comfortable working with this person and can communicate with him or her effectively. You will also want to ask some targeted questions about the therapist’s treatment protocols and overall philosophy. If his beliefs correspond with your own, you might have a good match. If not, it’s probably a good idea to look elsewhere.

• Find out who will be administering your care. If you choose a private doctor’s office or clinic, it is likely that the therapist himself will be working with you directly as you receive your physical therapy treatments. However, if you choose a larger setting such as a hospital or rehabilitation facility, chances are you may be receiving your care from a physical therapy assistant instead. Assistants are trained professionals and there are many good ones, but they are not licensed. If it turns out that an assistant will be your primary care-giver, then make sure that your sessions will be supervised by the licensed therapist in charge.

Whatever your specific disability or condition, finding a knowledgeable, experienced, and personable therapist who shares your concerns as well as your vision for recovery is the first step towards achieving your personal goals—whether they be to become more mobile, independent, or pain-free.

References

American Association of Physical Therapy. http://www.apta.org//AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home

The field of physical therapy has undergone quite a transformation in the last few decades. Traditionally thought to be only for sports injuries or post-surgical rehabilitation, the field of physical therapy has expanded to encompass treatment of just about any physical, and even neurological or cardiopulmonary ailment you can think of. Just about anyone can benefit to some extent from what physical therapy has to offer. The question is: do the benefits outweigh the sacrifices for your particular situation?  Here are a few questions to ask yourself if you are considering beginning a physical therapy regimen.

What are your chief complaints?

All of us have aches and pains now and then, some more severe than others. Some of us have medical conditions that impair our ability to move around and perform daily activities. The first step toward deciding whether you are a good candidate for physical therapy is to evaluate your health. Ask yourself the following questions: Are you as mobile and active as you would like to be? Do you experience pain that limits your daily functioning or quality of life? Do you wish that you could do more things on your own and not have to rely on others? If you answered yes to any of these questions, there’s a good chance that you could benefit from physical therapy.

How committed are you to achieving your goals?

It is certainly wonderful to have goals such as becoming more mobile, independent, or pain-free, but before beginning a program of physical therapy, you need to take an honest inventory of your commitment to achieving these goals. How much time and effort are you willing to invest?

Physical therapy is far from an easy fix. It can be painful, exhausting, time-consuming, and expensive, and like anything else, you will get from it what you are willing to put in. If you are truly sick of feeling the way you do and want a new lease on life, then you are likely motivated enough to do what it takes to achieve the desired results. If not, then don’t waste your time, energy, or money.

Have others suffering from your condition benefited from PT?

Although most physical therapists would say that anyone can benefit from physical therapy, it is the patients themselves who can offer the most accurate insight into what, if any, gains were made as a result of physical therapy treatments. Therefore, it may be a good idea to talk to other people suffering from the same condition you are who have undergone physical therapy.

These personal testimonies can help you determine whether PT is likely to help you. In addition to talking to people you know, you may consider conducting an Internet search to locate online testimonies and further information about the therapy methods used to certain conditions. Physical therapy is most commonly used to treat both minor and major orthopedic conditions, neurological disorders that affect balance and mobility, pediatric and geriatric conditions that inhibit independence, as well as some cardiopulmonary conditions. Find out if your condition falls into one of these categories, and then look for a specialist.

Does your doctor recommend it?

Talk to a general practitioner, preferably a trusted one, and ask him his opinion as to whether or not you would benefit from physical therapy. If you have been seeing this particular doctor for a while, he may know your condition better than anyone and be able to provide you with some knowledgeable advice. Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to take it. You are the definitive expert on your own body and ultimately, the decision is yours. If you believe physical therapy is for you, schedule a consultation with a specialist and discuss your treatment options.

Can you afford it?

Sometimes it’s hard to be practical when your health is at stake, but if you’re thinking about seeing a physical therapist, it might be a good idea to consider what it’s going to cost you. The good news is that most insurance policies cover physical therapy, but there are stipulations. Your particular policy may or may not cover physical therapy for the condition you suffer from, or it may only cover some of the costs. Moreover, there may be a specific list of therapists your policy requires you to see. Call your insurance company, or visit their website to find the answers to these questions. It’s a good idea to be informed before putting your finances on the line.

The question of whether or not to begin physical therapy is a personal one, but the more informed you are about your own situation as well as how physical therapy is used to treat your particular condition, the more likely you are to make the right decision.

References

Do I Need Physical Therapy? About.com. Retrieved from http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/typesofphysicaltherapy/a/WhoneedsPT.htm.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, stroke is the leading cause of disability in Americans. For the vast majority of stroke survivors, physical therapy is the only hope for regaining lost abilities such as walking, talking, and other necessary life skills. Although there are many factors which influence whether a patient will recover and to what extent, the quality of physical therapy the patient receives is a weighty one.

Evaluation

Strokes can range from mild to severe, and the long-term effects of a stroke vary greatly depending upon the patient, the severity of the stroke, and how quickly the patient receives treatment. Therefore, the first step for a physical therapist is to evaluate the patient’s disabilities. Some stroke victims suffer paralysis or limited movement on one side of the body while for others, the damage is widespread. Hence, the treatment plan for each individual patient will be largely upon the extent of his disability. During the evaluation phase, therapists assess the patient to determine his strength, mobility, gait, balance, and sensory impairment. Once an evaluation has been conducted, the physical therapist can begin designing an individualized therapy regimen intended to help the patient achieve the maximum amount of recovery possible.

Treatment

Although the protocol for the treatment of stroke victims varies according to the individual’s current level of functioning, as determined during the evaluation phase, there are certain therapeutic standards that apply to most patients.

Beginning Early

One of the most reliable indications of how well a patient will do in the recovery and rehabilitation phase is how early physical therapy begins following the stroke. Ideally, therapy should begin in the hospital as soon as the patient is stabilized, which typically occurs within two days of the patient’s admission.  If the patient is alert and can follow simple directions, the therapist will direct him to perform certain movements, usually targeting the area of the body most affected. If the patient is nonresponsive, however, the therapist will use manual therapy techniques to stimulate and move the patient’s limbs. The goal of this initial therapy is to help patients regain some level of functionality including walking, bathing, and dressing themselves. Therapy must begin early to avoid learned non-use of one or more limbs, a phenomenon that many stroke victims experience as a result of prolonged immobility.

Relearning Skills

Physical therapists may use a variety of different strategies and techniques intended to help patients relearn some of the skills they lost due to the brain damage incurred during the stroke. Depending on the patient’s condition, therapists may employ active and/or passive therapeutic techniques. Some passive modalities include manual physical therapy, a method in which therapists use their hands to move the patient’s limbs for him, bending and flexing them in an attempt to stimulate and strengthen the muscles. The therapist may also restrain the working limb in order to encourage the patient to move the impaired one. In addition to these passive techniques, the therapist may also utilize active therapeutic methods in which the patient must move on his own, performing certain exercises intended to promote strength and flexibility.

Learning How to Compensate

Although some stroke victims will recover the majority, if not all, of the skills they lost as a result of their stroke, others are not so lucky. If this is the case, the goal of physical therapy will be to help patients learn new skills to compensate for the ones they lost.

Practicing and Repeating

Most physical therapists agree that the key to effective rehabilitation for stroke victims is to practice, practice, practice. Stroke recovery can be a long and arduous process, producing slow but steady gains. The therapist must play the role of a coach, offering consistent encouragement to the patient to stay the course and continue practicing highly-focused activities designed to aid in the recovery of lost skills or the acquisition of new ones.

Follow-up

Follow-up care is an important part of any stroke victim’s rehabilitation plan. Once patients have recovered some or all lost abilities and learned any necessary compensatory skills, they must continue their physical therapy at home in order to maintain their gains. Therefore, therapists must educate patients and family members on proper exercise techniques and the importance of performing them on a regular basis.

Strokes are major medical events that can be fatal or at the very least, have negative effects including short and long-term disability. Thanks to the field of physical therapy, however, stroke victims do not have to be confined to a wheelchair. With proper physical rehabilitation, patients can regain their independence and mobility and learn to enjoy life again!

References

Stroke Rehabilitation Information. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Retrieved from http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/stroke/stroke_rehabilitation.htm.