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Who is a physical therapist?

A physical therapist is a health specialist and practitioner trained to evaluate and treat human body disorders and significantly abnormal bodily functions related to a specific injury, disability, or other health factors. Physical therapists primarily treat conditions and injuries in the musculoskeletal system (bone and muscles). Physical therapy can also help manage illnesses related to the neurological system, the cardiopulmonary system(heart and lungs), and the integumentary system (skin). 

A physical therapist supervises all their patients' healing phases, from the initial diagnosis to different stages of recovery. Physical therapy often supports other treatments and is a standalone form of care. Another healthcare practitioner can refer a patient to a physical therapist to complement an ongoing treatment. Physical therapists are trained to examine each patient and craft specialized treatment plans focused on enhancing their conditions, like increasing their ability to move, helping reduce or manage pain, restoring muscular functions, and preventing any injury or disability.

They use several methods, such as iontophoresis, electrical stimulation, heat, cold, and light therapy, to relieve their patients. A trained physical therapist thus helps their patients achieve their desired fitness goals and lead healthy and active lives.

What are the educational requirements to become a physical therapist?

The scope of physical therapy in terms of employment in America is vast, as its need is evident in many sectors, like hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, and sports and fitness facilities. One would require a bachelor's degree to enroll in a Doctor of Physical Therapy, or DTP program that the Commission accredits on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education; a DTP program is usually three years focusing on both classroom education and clinical education.

Alternatively, one may also choose to go for 3+3 years of the physical therapy program. A DTP program's primary focus subjects include anatomy, cellular histology, biomechanics, neuroscience, physiology, exercise physiology, pharmacology, pathology, behavioral sciences, and many more. A residency program or a fellowship is often the next choice after getting a DTP degree. One can also get board-certified by getting authorized by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.

Occupational therapy vs. physical therapy

Physical and occupational therapy assists you in moving your body more effectively and safely. However, the end goals of these therapies are different.

Physical therapy typically treats a specific part of your body. It helps alleviate symptoms of a medical condition, such as pain and stiffness, or while recovering from an injury or surgery.

Occupational therapy is mainly concerned with assisting people in improving their capacity to perform everyday chores and live as independently as possible. The term "occupation" in occupational therapy does not necessarily imply that you have lost your capacity to do your job or cannot return to work after an injury. Occupation is a broad phrase providers use to refer to any of the daily jobs you do. An occupational therapist helps develop your ability to use a computer, shop for food, and get dressed.

Common medical conditions addressed by physical therapist near you

Physical therapists may offer supplementary therapy for various medical issues depending on their specialty. Although physical therapists do not directly and independently treat conditions other than basic musculoskeletal conditions, they work to help people recover and improve their movement patterns.

Physical therapy can help individuals with the following conditions:

• Cardiopulmonary disorders such as cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or heart failure after a heart attack
• Problems affecting the hand, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger
• Neurological diseases such as traumatic brain traumas, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and vestibular dysfunction
• Musculoskeletal disorders, such as back pain, rotator cuff tears, and temporomandibular joint disorders
• Sports-related, for example, tennis elbow and concussion
• Pediatric ailments such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy
• Female health issues and pelvic floor dysfunction, including lymphedema and urine incontinence
• Skin conditions such as wound care, burns, and diabetic ulcers

Procedural expertise in physical therapy

Physical therapists are recognized as movement specialists who use exercise as a fundamental method to enhance mobility and overall well-being. Therapeutic exercises form the core of many treatment plans, often including stretches, isometric exercises, resistance band workouts, and weight training. These exercises are specifically designed to target weakened or injured areas, helping patients regain strength and flexibility.

In addition to exercise-based treatments, physical therapists often incorporate various therapeutic or physical modalities to support healing and restore functional mobility. Some of the widely used modalities include:

• Therapeutic ultrasound: This technique uses high- or low-frequency sound waves to penetrate muscles and nearby tissues, supporting relaxation while improving blood flow to the affected area.
• Electrical stimulation: Mild electrical currents are applied to improve muscle strength and boost blood flow, aiding in the recovery of injured tissues.
• Kinesiology taping: Specially designed cloth tape, commonly known as K-tape, is placed on the body during rehabilitation to help reduce pain, enhance circulation, and improve muscle coordination.
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): A portable, battery-powered device that delivers gentle electrical pulses to help alleviate pain.
• Light therapy: The use of lasers and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) at specific wavelengths to reduce chronic pain, ease inflammation, and promote wound healing.
• Massage therapy: Hands-on manipulation techniques are used to relieve muscle tightness and relax tendons and ligaments.
• Phonophoresis: This method employs ultrasound to deliver medications through the skin to deeper tissues.
• Iontophoresis: An electrical stimulation technique that pushes medication through the skin directly to muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
• Heat therapy (Thermotherapy): The application of warm treatments to enhance blood flow, relax muscles, reduce joint stiffness, and relieve pain.
• Cold therapy (Cryotherapy): The use of cold treatments to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain.
• Whirlpool therapy: Hydrotherapy that uses warm or cold swirling water to improve circulation, assist in wound care, or control inflammation.
• Traction: A method of immobilizing a limb or the spine to prevent movement during the recovery period.
• Joint mobilization: A technique where a therapist passively moves a joint to decrease pain and improve range of motion.
• Myofascial release: A gentle, sustained massage to relieve tightness and discomfort in the connective tissues supporting muscles and bones.

What are the benefits of physical therapy?

A physical therapist receives training to conduct a physical exam, evaluate a person's movement, give a clinical diagnosis and prognosis, and perform necessary treatments. Physical therapy has been proven beneficial in improving many health conditions. People seek physical therapy to manage pain and reduce their need for opioids to control pain. Physical therapy is a great option for people who want to avoid surgery. 

Physical therapists can help improve mobility and monitor the recovery of their patients who suffer from injury or trauma. In cases of stroke or paralysis, physical therapy can also help and relieve patients. Physical therapists work with their elderly patients to improve their balance, alongside treating other age-related medical problems. A sports physical therapist enhances an athlete's efficiency to maximize performance by strengthening and modulating specific body parts to improve flexibility.

How to find the best physical therapist in Arlington, Texas?

If you are experiencing pain or trouble with functional mobility, it is essential to see a physical therapist near you. They can provide specialized services, evaluate your condition, and prescribe targeted therapies to assist you in regaining your standard functionality.

If you want to find the best physical therapist practicing in Arlington, Texas, you just need to create a free account on Zocdoc. Based on your information, Zocdoc will curate a list of the best medical and healthcare practitioners. You must enter your details, like zip code and area, the date and time of your availability, the medical practitioner, and the specialty. One of the most critical features of Zocdoc is that you can find specialists who will accept the kind of insurance you have. Each doctor has a personalized profile where you can view the details of the physician, including their qualifications, affiliations, licenses, publications, etc. After making an informed choice, you can book an appointment with the physical therapist near you. 

Zocdoc also has verified patient reviews and ratings to help you decide which pediatrician you prefer. You can book an online or an in-person appointment, depending on your needs. And the best part is that all bookings on Zocdoc are simple, secure, and 100% free!

Statistics of physical therapy in Arlington, Texas

The U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics reports that the number of practicing physical therapists will grow by nearly 17% from 2021 to 2031, alongside the projection of 15,400 job openings for physical therapists yearly over the decade. The number of jobs available for physical therapy practitioners in 2021 was around 238,800. 

Physical therapy continues to be a popular method of treatment for arthritis. According to America's Health Rankings, 20% of Texas' adult population had arthritis in some form in 2020. The prevalence of arthritis was highest in those over 65. More than 50% of people aged 65 and up had arthritis.

IBISWorld studies that around 578,565 practitioners were employed in the physical therapist industry in America (data as of 2022). Physical therapy is ranked 12th in the healthcare and social assistance industry in terms of employment in the U.S.

Sources

WebMD

Medical News Today

American Physical Therapy Association

U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics

Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science

IBISWorld

America's Health Rankings

Cleveland Clinic

Verywellhealth

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.