Physical therapy is an exciting, dynamic, and essential health profession devoted to optimizing physical function. Treatment often includes exercise for patients who have been immobilized and lack flexibility, strength, or endurance.  They encourage patients to use their own muscles to further increase flexibility and range-of-motion before finally advancing to other exercises, improving strength, balance, coordination, and endurance.  Their goal is to improve how an individual functions at work and home.

Physical therapists also use electrical stimulation, hot packs or cold compresses, and ultrasound to relieve pain and reduce swelling.  Physical TherapyThey may use traction or deep-tissue massage to relieve pain.  Therapists also teach patients to use support and adaptive devices such as crutches, prostheses, and wheelchairs.  They also may show patients exercises to do at home to expedite their recovery.

As treatment continues, physical therapists document progress, conduct periodic examinations, and modify treatments when necessary.  Such documentation is used to track the patient's progress and identify areas requiring more or less attention.

Physical TherapyPhysical therapists often consult and practice with a variety of other professionals, such as physicians, dentists, nurses, educators, social workers, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and audiologists.

Some physical therapists treat a wide range of ailments; others specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, orthopedics, sports medicine, neurology, and cardiopulmonary physical therapy.

Meet our Physical Therapy Team!