Facts About A Physical Therapist Sterling Va

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.

In order that pain and swelling may be reduced, there is the use of electrical stimulation, hot packs, ultrasound and cold compresses. There is also need to improve flexibility and circulation, which is done using traction and deep-tissue massage. The patients are also educated on how to use crutches and prostheses, plus how to go about their home exercises. Progress of patients is noted through periodic examinations and check-ups.

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.

They practice in hospitals, private offices and clinics. Their job is usually very demanding because one would often have to stoop, crouch, kneel and stand for lengthy periods. That aside, they move equipment that is heavy and at times also lift patients. The majority of full-time therapists work for approximately 40 hours every week, with others offering round the clock services. Those that work in the evenings and weekends seek to fit the schedule of their patients.

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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