What is Physical Therapy?
A physical therapist is an expert in “the science of healing and the art of caring”. Our goal is to correct muscle imbalances, joint dysfunctions, neuromuscular deficits and postural distortion patterns. Some of the more common diagnoses treated include: neck/back disorders, hip and knee conditions, foot/ankle injuries, sprains/strains, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, sports injuries, sciatica, TMJ pain and dysfunction, post surgical rehabilitation, work, & automobile injuries, shoulder pain, arthritis, stroke, hand/upper extremity disorders, and neurological conditions. We also offer In-home physical therapy.
Physical therapy has many specialties including cardiopulmonary, geriatrics, neurologic, orthopedic, manual therapy, sports medicine, wound care and pediatrics to name some of the more common areas. PT’s practice in many settings, such as outpatient clinics, inpatient rehabilitation facilities, skilled nursing facilities, extended care facilities, private homes, education and research centers, schools, hospices, industrial workplaces or other occupational environments, fitness centers and sports training facilities.
Educational qualifications vary greatly by country. The span of education ranges from some countries having little formal education to others requiring masters or entry level doctoral degrees. In the United States physical therapist education includes clinical internships. All states also require physical therapists to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination before they can practice.
Other post professional programs can include advanced post professional PhD, DSc, and DPT degrees. Post professional certifications can also be obtained in manual therapy, ergonomics, wound care, orthopedics, wound care, geriatrics, pediatrics, and neurological rehab.
