Information About A Physical Therapist Sterling VA Residents Should Know

By Chasity Sheppard


In looking for the services of a physical therapist Sterling VA residents should be well conversant with what their job entails. They provide services that help in restoration of function, improvement of mobility, pain relief and prevention of permanent physical disability in individuals suffering from various injuries or disease. They help in promotion and maintenance of overall fitness and health. Among their patients are accident victims and people that have disabling conditions like arthritis, heart disease and fractures.

They examine the medical history of the patients, in addition to measuring their strength, posture, functions of motors and their range of motion. Thereafter, they develop plans that describe the strategies of treatment and the anticipated outcome. By setting the strategy of treatment, the specialist is able to effectively take care of their patients.

Exercising is one of the used treatment options. It comes in handy for people that have lost their moving ability, endurance, flexibility and lack strength. The therapists encourage their patients to make use of their muscles to enhance range of motion as well as flexibility. More advanced exercises are designed for improvement of balance, coordination and strength. These are meant to improve functioning of the patient both at home and at the office.

For purposes of relieving pain and reducing swellings, there is the use of electrical stimulation, hot packs, ultrasound and cold compresses. In addition, there is the use of deep-tissue massage and traction for improvement of circulation and enhancement of flexibility. Patients are also taught how to use prostheses and crutches, plus ways in which they can do exercises. There is documentation of the patient progress as their treatment continues. They are also examined periodically.

Physical therapists work closely with professionals from many other fields. Such professionals include dentists, educators, audiologists and nurses. Some of the therapists treat many ailments, while others specialize. Some of the fields they specialize in are pediatrics, neurology and sports medicine.

Physical therapists practice in clinics, private offices and hospitals.The profession is very demanding since many at times they would have to crouch, kneel, stand or stoop for lengthy periods of time. Besides, they normally have to move equipment that is very heavy. The working hours of a full time therapist are approximately 40 per week, though there are those that offer round the clock services.

As concerns training, they are required to possess a Masters degree and obtain a license before they are able to practice. For one to apply for licensure, they must have graduated from institutions that are accredited. The programs begin with basic courses in sciences like chemistry, physics and biology. A license is obtained after one passes a national exam for physical therapists. Some states would give an extra exam.

In searching for a physical therapist Sterling VA residents have a number of options to use. One of the most popular and convenient is the internet. It is accessible to many and most professionals in this field advertise their services using it. There are also those that advertise their services through print and electronic media.




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