Physical Therapy

What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy diagnoses and treats mobility issues caused by injury, disability, disease, or surgery. Specifically, it uses strengthening exercises, stretches, and hands-on manipulation (like massage) to ease pain, encourage mobility, and reduce the risk of complications.

What conditions can benefit from physical therapy?

At Beaufort Orthopaedic Sports & Spine Center, the expert orthopedists use physical therapy to treat various conditions, including:

• Sports injuries
• Neck and back pain
• Herniated disc
• Sciatica
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Hand and wrist injuries
• Rotator cuff tear
• Meniscus tear
• ACL injuries
• Trigger finger
• Knee replacement
• Hip replacement
• Spinal fusion
• Arthritis

You might also benefit from physical therapy if you break a bone.

What does a physical therapy consultation involve?

At Beaufort Orthopaedic Sports & Spine Center, a physical therapy appointment begins with a review of your medical history and a discussion of your symptoms. Afterward, your provider conducts an exam, checking your posture, movement and flexibility, and range of motion.

If these steps don’t provide enough information about the symptoms you’re experiencing, your provider might order additional tests like blood work, X-rays, or an MRI to rule out underlying issues like infection or broken bones.

Following an official diagnosis, your provider develops a custom physical therapy treatment regimen that aligns with your needs.

What does physical therapy look like?

At Beaufort Orthopaedic Sports & Spine Center, the team specializes in orthopedic physical therapy. Usually, that involves a combination of treatments, including manual therapy, mobility training, strength training, and joint mobilization.

Ultimately, the goal is to enhance your mobility and relieve pain, allowing you to return to your favorite activities.

How long will I need to participate in physical therapy?

The length of time you’ll need to participate in physical therapy depends on various factors, including the injury treated, the severity of your symptoms, and their effect on your daily life. Typically, the team recommends a series of at least six appointments spaced a week apart, but you might benefit from more frequent visits.

To ensure a positive outcome, make sure to attend each appointment and follow your physical therapists’ instructions carefully.

To learn more about the benefits of physical therapy, make an appointment at Beaufort Orthopaedic Sports & Spine Center by calling the nearest office or scheduling online today.