Physical therapists treat patients experiencing various problems—from pain management to complications in the circulatory system. Some patients may not know this, but there are different types of physical therapy that cater to specific groups of people and conditions. It pays to be familiar with them, so that you get the specific type of care you need.
Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Orthopedic physical therapy addresses musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, such as those involving the tendons, muscles, ligaments, bones, and connective tissues. Physical therapists specializing in this area help patients manage problems with mobility and pain management.
Some individuals assume that this type of physical therapy only serves athletes or those experiencing sports-related injuries. However, this is not true. It is suitable for anyone with musculoskeletal system-related problems, such as the following:
- Bursitis
- Tendonitis
- Sprains
- Fractures
- Rehabilitation from orthopedic surgery
- Chronic orthopedic problems, like scoliosis or arthritis
Orthopedic physical therapists treat these issues with various tailor-fitted methods. Examples of these include strength training, exercise, stretching, electrical muscle stimulation, and heat and ice therapy application. They are also trained to educate patients on injury prevention through proper form, technique, and posture.
Pediatric Physical Therapy
The main goal of pediatric physical therapy is to address the unique need of toddlers, infants, and adolescents. Whether your child is injured or has a medical condition affecting their mobility and physical functioning, pediatric physical therapy can help.
Some diseases and injuries that pediatric physical therapy can help with include:
- Orthopedic disabilities
- Head trauma
- Muscle diseases
- Limb deficiencies
- Genetic disorders
- Acute injuries
- Developmental delays
- Congenital disabilities
Geriatric Physical Therapy
Geriatric physical therapy is for elderly patients. As you age, different components of your body deteriorate, and you are prone to develop specific conditions and injuries. Geriatric physical therapy accounts for this and focuses on slowing down the effects of such issues as well as improving your mobility and reducing pain symptoms.
When patients undergo geriatric physical therapy, exercises and activities help strengthen weakened muscles, reduce the likelihood of future injuries, and adjust posture and gait. This type of physical therapy helps with issues such as:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Arthritis
- Hip and joint replacement
- Osteoporosis
- Incontinence
- Balance disorders
Neurological Physical Therapy
Neurological physical therapy treats conditions involving the nervous system as well as the spine. Patients can experience a range of health issues involving the spine and nervous system. Some of these include multiple sclerosis, sciatica, brain or spinal cord injuries, neuropathy, cerebral palsy, and fibromyalgia.
It is vital to treat these conditions as they can inhibit your coordination, balance, sensations, and overall movement. The role of physical therapists is to help you improve and regain functionality and reduce motor defects.
Cardiovascular/Pulmonary Physical Therapy
Cardiopulmonary physical therapy treats those with heart and circulation problems. These problems, if not appropriately treated, may lead to pulmonary fibrosis and heart problems. The primary role of this physical therapy is to help strengthen your key muscles and improve endurance.
Vestibular Rehabilitation
This realm of physical therapy addresses the problems with the inner ear. Once this part of the body experiences complications, there’s a significant chance that it will lead to dizziness and loss of balance. Vestibular rehabilitation does not treat the ear problem. Instead, it strengthens muscles to improve balance and promote steadiness.
Physical Therapy in Bad Axe, Lapeer, and Rochester Hills, Michigan
At Ahlgren Spine, we are dedicated to bringing you back to your active and pain-free lifestyle as quickly as possible. We do this through high-quality surgical and nonoperative treatments. Our goal is to identify the cause of your problem and address this through a tailored treatment plan for your condition, which may include physical therapy.
Our team, headed by Dr. Bradley D. Ahlgren, is trained to utilize advanced state-of-the-art technology to address every patient’s needs. Make an appointment today and find out how we can help you. We have convenient locations in Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, and Lapeer, Michigan. You may reach us at (248) 215-8080 or request an appointment online.
