Chances are, you have already heard of physical therapy. You might have heard from a friend how physical therapy helped get rid of his or her back pain, or you might know someone who needed physical therapy after having surgery. You might even have been treated by a physical therapist yourself. But have you ever wondered what else physical therapy has to offer?

Physical therapy consists of inpatient and outpatient care for treatment and rehabilitation of problems of a physical nature caused by illness or disease, injury, surgery or physical disability. Physical therapists evaluate those problems through observation, physical examination, special tests and the patient’s medical history. They then consult with the patient’s physician and develop an individualized treatment plan to improve motion, decrease pain and achieve specific goals.

In today’s health care system, physical therapists are the experts in the examination and treatment of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular problems that affect the ability of people to move the way they want and function as well as they want in their daily lives. Because people of all ages, from the very young to the very aged, have the need to move and function, physical therapists work with patients across the lifespan. You might see physical therapists working with patients in hospitals, in nursing homes, in outpatient clinics, in the home, in schools and even on the job.

The ability to maintain an upright posture and to move your arms and legs to perform all sorts of tasks and activities is an important component of your health. Most of us can learn to live with the various medical conditions that we may develop, but only if we are able to continue at our jobs, take care of our families and enjoy important occasions with family and friends. All of these activities require the ability to move without difficulty or pain. Physical therapists strive to prevent disability, relieve pain and ultimately, restore function so patients can lead more active, independent lives.

Orthopedic injuries and post-surgical rehabilitation patients make up a large percentage of patients seen in physical therapy clinics. But did you know that physical therapy can help with dizziness, fall prevention and incontinence? How about exercise programs for Osteoporosis, Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson’s? Physical therapists also treat patients who have suffered from stroke, been involved in car accidents or been injured during sports or at work. Home safety assessments and worksite evaluations are also incorporated at times for preventative health.

If you are experiencing pain or limited function from any of these conditions physical therapy may be able to help. Ask your primary care physician about a referral and start to regain control over your body. Appointments can be made by calling the Physical Therapy Department at the Sleepy Eye Medical Center, 794-3571 ext. 323.