FAQ
If you have no previous history of physical therapy treatment you may not know what to expect. Below are the answers to questions that patients often ask us.
• What is physical therapy and will the treatments hurt ?
The profession of physical therapy deals with the restoration of functional physical movements through reducing pain, increasing joint mobility,and improving muscle function and strength . Various types of exercises are utilized by the physical therapist to achieve these goals. Physical Therapy exercises may at times be uncomfortable and even somewhat painful, but always should be within the short term and long term tolerance of the patient. Often, physical agents such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation are utilized to promote muscle relaxation, increase tolerance to stretching and reduce pain.
• How long will it take to get rid of my pain ?
The reduction of pain depends on many factors such as how long a person has had the specific painful condition, what is still actively causing inflamation, muscle spasms and what is the restricted mobility of an affected joint.
• What is the best way to lose weight ?
Weight reduction is best achieved by using a combination of approaches that need to be developed through the collaboration of the patient’s personal physician and or an appropriate physician specialist with a registered dietician and a physical therapist.
• What is the best way to start an exercise program ?
Most patient’s find it very helpful to first identify the goals of their exercise program. Then they need to decide whether they need professional guidance or they are willing and able to get sound information themselves and commit themselves to a regular routine of exercise. It is always critical to have regular medical examinations and if you plan on starting an exercise program you should have medical clearance to begin safely. In order to maintain a consistent exercise program that achieves your goals and maintains your achieved level of fitness, you should try to vary the types of exercises that you perform and try to find exercises that you enjoy or at the very least ones that you will do because they will allow you to engage in a physical activity that you enjoy.
• What can I do to better live with a chronic pain condition ?
Chronic pain is often one of the most challenging conditions to live with. My experience has taught me that the best results are often achieved through the joint efforts of a variety of specialists and a willingness to try several different approaches, provided that you give each method a reasonable