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Physical Therapy For The Rehabilitation Process

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Physical Therapy

Definition of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is the treatment of deformity, injury, or disease by healthcare professionals, physical therapists, through hands-on methods such as massage, exercise, or heat treatment so that drugs or surgery may not be needed. In physical therapy sessions therapists work with patients to help them improve their movement so that they are able to manage their pain. Physical therapy is an active profession with a scientific base that helps patients to restore and to maintain optimal physical function. Physical therapists take an active role in the rehabilitation process, in prevention and health maintenance programs, and in fitness and wellness programs (PT Careers, 2015). Their services …show more content…

Patient examination in physical therapy includes measures such as strength, flexibility, range of motion, motor function, and quality of life. After all of this has been done, a physical therapist uses clinical reasoning to determine what is wrong with the patient and what should be done to help the patient improve. He uses the gathered information to develop an individualized care plan for each patient, indicating the patient’s short- and long-term goals and expected outcomes as a result of the therapy sessions (U.S. Bureau, 2015).
Once the plan has been established, the therapist works with his patient using stretches, exercises, and hands-on therapy to help alleviate pain, increase mobility, and prevent further injury. The therapist evaluates and tracks the patient’s progress and modifies the plan by trying new treatments when needed. A physical therapist must be able to communicate well with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals and must be able to show integrity and compassion for his patients. Another important aspect of a physical therapist’s job is to teach his patients appropriate ways to perform certain tasks so that further injury does not occur, promoting future health and wellness (U.S. Bureau, 2015).
Facilities and Working Conditions
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Physical therapists held about 210,900 jobs in 2014, and offices of physical and occupational therapists employed 34% of those physical therapists. Physical

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