How can physical therapy help?

Physical therapy is an important part of the healing process for patients with limitations in functional mobility. Those limitations can be caused by injury, illness, surgery, or chronic medical conditions. Physical therapists are recovery experts, trained to assess each individual condition and create treatment plans designed to help the patient regain maximum functional mobility and independence.. A variety of treatment modalities and techniques are used to help patients move better and feel better. Here’s how this highly personalized healthcare specialty can help:

Physical therapy can help rehabilitate after a stroke

Patients recovering from a stroke must relearn basic functions and skills. Daily, individualized physical therapy sessions can help with mobility training, range-of-motion therapy, and motor skills. Stroke rehabilitation can help patients become as independent as possible by regaining balance and coordination, and strengthening muscles to facilitate mobility. Stroke rehabilitation is usually a comprehensive program that includes not only physical therapy, but occupational and speech therapy as well.

Physical therapy can help after a spinal cord injury

After a spinal cord injury, it’s important for patients to resume physical activity in order to strengthen the muscles around the spine. Physical therapy following a spinal cord injury can help by maximizing the patient’s sensory and motor function recovery, while preventing secondary complications and health issues. Individualized treatment plans will also help increase strength and range of motion, and aid in pain management.

Physical therapy can facilitate healing from joint replacement surgery

Physical therapy plays a key role in the rehabilitation of patients recovering from joint replacement surgery, including total joint replacement of the knee, hip, or shoulder. Treatment will help restore range of motion, strength, mobility, flexibility, and endurance, with the goal of helping the patient return to their everyday activities and hobbies. Assistive devices are common with joint replacement surgery, and the physical therapist can help identify the correct device for each patient’s specific needs.

Physical therapy can help recovery after sports injuries 

Sports injuries include fractures and soft tissue damage, as well as injuries from fatigue and overuse. Recovering from a sports injury often requires physical therapy, which helps patients rebuild strength and movement in the affected area while managing pain and preventing permanent damage and reinjury. Physical therapy can also be used to prevent sports injuries with an approach called proactive physical therapy, in which the therapist will identify and address weaknesses and imbalances in one part of the body that might be impacting other areas.

Physical therapy can help with pulmonary conditions 

Pulmonary conditions including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma attacks, bronchitis and pneumonia can make it difficult for people to carry out everyday tasks like walking short distances and climbing stairs. Physical therapy for pulmonary conditions includes building endurance through rehabilitation exercises and using breathing strategies to reduce shortness of breath. Pulmonary rehabilitation is also an option for patients preparing for or recovering from lung surgery.

Physical therapy can help during post acute rehabilitation 

For patients who no longer need hospital care following an injury, illness, or surgery but would benefit from additional therapy and care before returning home, post acute rehabilitation is available. Physical therapy during this process helps patients achieve recovery goals and regain independence, with treatment that increases mobility, balance, coordination, strength, and range of motion. Physical therapy can also involve adaptive equipment, pain management techniques, and other specialized care customized to each patient’s needs.

Physical therapy can help with chronic medical conditions 

Persistent pain and mobility limitations from chronic medical conditions like back pain, arthritis, and fatigue disorders can lead to reduced independence and participation in life. Physical therapy can help patients suffering from chronic conditions by relieving pain, promoting healing, and restoring function and movement. 

Bella Vista offers physical therapy at a full-service skilled nursing facility in San Diego

Physical therapy is available through hospitals, outpatient medical centers, skilled nursing facilities, and in-home care services, and each has its own advantages. At Bella Vista Health Center, we offer customized residential rehabilitation services with the goal of empowering patients to get back to their personal best. When you stay at our 5-star skilled nursing facility for long or short term physical therapy, you can focus on healing and regaining your independence—we’ll take care of the rest. To schedule a tour of our facility, call us at (619) 399-7920.