When it comes to knee care, patients might undergo a variety of treatments to ensure that these joints are healthy. It is important to know when you need physical therapy and this type of healthcare service can be beneficial for a variety of injuries and medical conditions. Learning a little about physical therapy can be helpful in knowing when this service will benefit you. You also want to choose a qualified provider, so that you can be sure that you are in good hands.
What Types of Issues Do Physical Therapists Treat?
Those who administer physical therapy work to promote mobility and a better quality of life. They can work with many conditions, such as back pain, surgical recovery, muscle and joint injuries, arthritis and limited mobility. Your doctor can help you determine if your condition may benefit from physical therapy. Examples of how a physical therapist can help include the following:
- Those who are at risk for falls and other injuries
- Those who need to build strength and endurance
- Those who need to improve balance and flexibility
- Those who need help with improving range of motion
- Those who have a chronic health condition that could use additional management
- Those who are recovering from orthopedic surgeries
Will a Physical Therapist Be Beneficial for Me?
Before heading to an appointment with a professional of physical therapy, you want to be sure that this healthcare professional can be helpful for you. If you are having difficulty with normal activities of daily living a physical therapist may be able to help. For example, if you are having chronic pain that interferes with your day, difficulty doing things like going up or down stairs or having trouble getting dressed, physical therapy can often help. You may work with a team of therapists to ensure that you get the most comprehensive treatment.
Must a Doctor Refer Me to Physical Therapy?
This will depend on the state you live in and your insurance company. If you are considering physical therapy, you should talk to your general practitioner and if a referral is necessary they can work with you to do this. If you are working with a specialist, such as an orthopedic doctor, for the specific issue you want to address in physical therapy you will want to consult your specialist. They may know a physical therapist that they trust and know well so that all of you can work together when creating a comprehensive treatment plan.
This gives you some basic information about physical therapy to help you make the right decision for your health. Your doctor for knee care in the Fox Valley, from Green Bay to Oshkosh, can aid you in determining if this type of professional is a good choice for you.
Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine (APTSM) is located on the campus of the Orthopedic & Sports Institute (OSI). APTSM is the largest fully independent provider of comprehensive orthopedic, sports, and industrial physical and occupational therapy in Wisconsin, with over 20 locations to serve you. APTSM’s dedication to patient care has contributed to recognition at the local, state, and national levels. In 2013, the American Physical Therapy Association honored APTSM as the top private practice in the country.
OSI and APTSM coordinate athletic training care for the Appleton Area School District and are both proud members of NOVO Health.