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Orthopedic Physical Therapy
The musculoskeletal system is made up of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. Regardless of activity level, people are at risk for the development of musculoskeletal injuries and dysfunction. Orthopedic physical therapy is a specialized feild that involves the diagnosis and treatment of such injuries and dysfunctions, as well as rehabilitation after orthopedic surgery. Any disruption to the musculoskeletal system, either from injury or surgery, will benefit from ongoing management of a skilled orthopedic physical therapist. At PAPT, we are dedicated to leading all patients back to their optimal physical health, so that a timely return to full participation in daily activities is achieved. We are also leaders in preventative care and offer On-site evaluation and analysis, so that our patients are able to understand why their injuries have occured and how to prevent future ones from happening. We welcome those of all professional backgrounds and specialize in serving the performing arts community including dancers, actors, musicians, and tech crews. For a listing of conditions that we treat, click here.
Orthopedic interventions include:
- soft tissue and joint mobilizations
o Musculoskeletal dysfunction affects the mobility of soft tissue such as muscle, fascia, tendons, and ligaments. It can also decrease movement at joints, called joint play. Without proper mobility, the body is unable to function with the normal amount of strength, power, or range of motion. Mobilization is a treatment approach focused on increasing movement in restricted soft tissue and joints.
- strengthening and flexibility programs
o Therapeutic exercise is used to strengthen and stretch specific muscles and groups of muscles that have been affected by injury. Addressing deficits in strength and flexibility are integral parts of every physical therapy rehabilitation program. - balance and gait training
o Injuries, particularly to the lower extremities and trunk, can affect balance and walking patterns. A thorough analysis of deviations that may be contributing to balance or gait deficits precedes all training. Tools such as rocker boards, trampolines, and practice of correct gait patterns can assist in re-teaching the body how to negotiate space safely and efficiently.
- electrical stimulation
o Electrical stimulation describes the application of transcutaneous current through electrodes placed on the skin. E-stim can be utilized to increase muscle strength and endurance, decrease pain, decrease muscle spasm, decrease edema, and deliver drugs transdermally (iontophoresis).
- ultrasound therapy
o Ultrasound is the delivery of sound waves at high frequencies that can increase tissue temperature and increase tissue healing at the cellular level. Ultrasound is used to treat pain, shortened soft tissue, injuries to muscle, tendons, or ligaments, and to deliver topical drugs through the skin (phonophoresis).
- phonophoresis and iontophoresis
o Phonophoresis is used to enhance the delivery of topical drugs through the skin. Common drugs delivered this way are anti-inflammatories, anesthetics, and counterirritants.
o Iontophoresis is the delivery of drugs through the skin by electrical stimulation. Common drugs delivered this way are anti-inflammatories and anesthetics
- thermotherapy
o Thermotherapy is the use of cold and hot applications for the purpose of treating pain, inflammation, edema, stiff joints, tight muscles and tendons, and spasm.
- taping
o Traditional athletic taping is used to support and stabilize injured joints for activity. Kinesotaping functions to help correct malalignment in areas such as the foot, knee, and shoulder.
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