What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy — also known as physiotherapy — is the treatment of disorders to bones, muscles or joints through hands-on, physical methods. A physical therapy program is intended to reduce pain and improve functionality for the patient.

Access Sports Medicine’s Physical Therapy Program

The goal of our outpatient physical therapy program is to address impairment and functional limitations following injury, disease, illness or any significant change in physical condition.

During an initial physiotherapy evaluation, one of our physical therapists will assess the patient’s potential for progress and develop a plan that is unique to their condition. The physical therapist will also set short-term and long-term goals for the patient’s progress. Patient outlook is largely dependent on the diagnosis, prognosis and factors such as age and other present conditions.

Physical Rehabilitation

Common conditions that require physical therapy are:

  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Rotator cuff tendinitis
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Iliotibial band (ITBH) syndrome
  • Ankle spains
  • Acute fractures
  • Tendon/nerve lacerations
  • Bicep tendon ruptures
  • Back strains

Many rehabilitation techniques used to treat these conditions include:

  • Modalities (heat, ice, electric stimulation, ultrasounds)
  • Range of motion exercises
  • Strengthening techniques
  • Graston Technique®
  • Patient education regarding the injury and recovery

Physical therapy is also used post-operatively to help patients recover quickly, safely and effectively. Our physiotherapy team can also be consulted for home exercise prescription and home or office ergonomic recommendations for someone with a change in their functional condition.

Our rehabilitation professionals can also be consulted for home exercise prescription and home or office ergonomic recommendations for someone with a change in functional condition.

Meet Our Physical Therapists

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will I always work with the same physical therapist?
A: Our physical therapists treat patients in teams of two, so you will be followed by a primary physical therapist and an assistant physical therapist or athletic trainer. Your primary physical therapist will be in constant communication with the team regarding your care.

Q: Will my physical therapist give me things to work on at home?
A: Absolutely! When appropriate, you’ll be given a home exercise program. A good physical therapy program includes a great deal of education regarding your daily activities, including what to avoid and exercises you can do to facilitate healing and improve function. With these techniques, you become the most important member of your therapy team.

Q: How can I be seen by one of your physical therapists?
A: Our physical therapists can take referrals from outside physicians including MDs, DOs, PAs and NPs. We are unable to take referrals from chiropractors, RNs or midwives.

Our staff understands and recognizes the importance of providing current and accurate workers’ compensation information and patient progress reports in a timely manner. Above all, our focus is on the recovery process and getting patients back to work quickly.

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