Who is a physical therapist?
A physical therapist is a healthcare expert who diagnoses and treats conditions that typically affect the musculoskeletal system, i.e., the bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, etc. They may also assist you in managing and treating issues related to the following:
- Neurological system (brain)
- Integumentary system (skin)
- Cardiopulmonary system (lungs and heart)
Physical therapists can treat individuals of all ages. Having an injury is not a prerequisite for visiting them. You can also see a physical therapist near you for guidance on growing healthier and preventing future problems. They generally work at hospitals, schools, athletics, long-term care centers, clinics, etc.
What does a physical therapist do?
Physical therapists often get referrals from doctors and other professionals. They usually begin by conducting a physical examination to understand your issues better. They may then employ a combination of stretching, exercises, and other techniques as a treatment strategy.
Physical therapists are proficient in the following:
- Conducting physical examinations to determine the range of motion, flexibility, and mobility
- Providing a clinical diagnosis and designing a personalized treatment plan
- Implementing physical therapy interventions and therapies
- Using equipment such as kinesthetic tape or electrical stimulation machines
- Using crutches or other similar items to assist you
- Guiding self-management practices and at-home workout
The aim is to revive functionality by improving motion range and enhancing movement in specific body areas. You may require fewer prescription medications, surgeries, or therapy sessions in the future if you receive regular physical therapy.
What education and license do physical therapists possess?
Aspiring physical therapists must obtain a doctorate (Doctor of Physical Therapy) from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education and then clear a state licensure exam. They may also participate in a clinical residency or fellowship program to become competent in a particular subfield. Almost 80% of the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curriculum is didactic, conducted in the classroom and laboratories, with the remaining 20% being clinical instruction.
What conditions do physical therapists treat?
Physical therapists can provide supplementary therapy for various medical issues depending on their subspecialty. Other than musculoskeletal disorders, physical therapists cannot directly and independently treat medical diseases. However, they can help patients recover and teach them how to improve their movement patterns while collaborating with other practitioners.
Physical therapy can be significant in the following:
- Neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, vestibular dysfunction, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries
- Pediatric conditions, such as muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy
- Problems concerning the hand, such as trigger finger and carpal tunnel syndrome
- Musculoskeletal dysfunction and temporomandibular joint disorders, including rotator cuff tears and back pain
- Sports-related injuries, including tennis elbow and concussions
- Pelvic floor dysfunction and female health, like urinary incontinence and lymphedema
- Cardiopulmonary ailments, such as post-myocardial infarction heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cystic fibrosis
- Skin diseases or injuries, such as diabetic ulcers, wound care, and burns
What are the benefits of physical therapy?
A personalized physical therapy treatment plan will assist patients in regaining their organs' original level of functioning. It promotes healthier lifestyle choices, including regular exercising, that can help avoid further injuries and enhance overall health. Physical therapy can benefit you in a variety of ways. It can improve mobility and balance, help manage diabetes and vascular conditions, alleviate or eliminate pain, aid recovery after a stroke, etc.
Preparing for your visit to a physical therapist
Preparing for a visit to a physical therapist involves several steps to ensure a productive and successful appointment. Here is a guide to help you:
- Medical information and history: Gather relevant medical records, including previous surgeries, diagnoses, and medications. Note down any symptoms, pain levels, or limitations you are experiencing.
- Insurance and referral: Check your insurance coverage for physical therapy services. Ensure you have any required referrals or authorizations from your primary care physician (PCP) or insurance provider.
- Questions and concerns: Prepare a list of queries and concerns you have about your condition, treatment plan, or expected outcomes. Ensure to discuss your expectations and goals from physical therapy.
- Clothing and comfort: Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy movement and access to the affected area. Since not all physical therapy clinics provide changing room facilities, inquiring at the clinic about the same beforehand can help you plan appropriately for the visit. Also, bring any assistive devices you use, such as braces, orthotics, or walking aids.
- Arrive early: Reach early for your appointment to complete any necessary paperwork or administrative tasks. Bring required ID proofs and any relevant forms.
- Open communication: Be open and honest when discussing your symptoms, concerns, and medical history with the therapist. Communicate any fears, limitations, or expectations you might have regarding the treatment.
- Follow-up plan: Understand the therapist's initial assessment and proposed treatment plan. Discuss the frequency of sessions, exercises to be performed at home, and expected duration of therapy.
- Consistency and commitment: Commit to attending scheduled therapy sessions regularly. Follow the therapist's instructions and practice recommended exercises or activities at home.
- Feedback and progress tracking: Provide feedback to the therapist about your progress, any changes in symptoms, or issues during the treatment process. Collaborate with the therapist to make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan if needed.
How can you find an excellent physical therapist near you?
You may need physical therapy if movement or mobility issues make everyday tasks challenging. It can also help correct improper posture or manage a condition like arthritis. When administered appropriately and regularly, physical therapy can help avoid long-term injury and recurrent disorders.
Finding a reputable physical therapist in Morristown, New Jersey, can be time-consuming. However, Zocdoc is here to your rescue! We can assist you in finding qualified medical professionals in your city or neighborhood.
Zocdoc helps you schedule an online or in-person consultation with a highly regarded physical therapist from the convenience of your home. To register for free, visit our website and type your symptoms or condition in the search bar. You can also include your location, insurance provider, and desired appointment date. After you press enter, Zocdoc will show you a list of top physical therapists in your area.
You may look at each doctor's profile before choosing one. It contains details of their specialty, wait times, languages they speak, insurance plans they accept, hospital affiliations, etc. You can read about their credentials and professional experience, the problems for which patients seek treatment, and any certificates, accolades, or licenses they may have earned.
Zocdoc allows you to see a doctor's availability on their schedule for the upcoming week or month. Depending on the physical therapist's schedule, you can also book weekend sessions. Each specialist's profile on Zocdoc has an authentic and verified patient review section, which may help you make a more informed decision about whom you seek care from.
Zocdoc makes booking appointments with the best physical therapist near you simple, secure, and 100% free!
Physical therapy statistics in New Jersey
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) study, in 2020, roughly 1,415,625 (21%) of New Jersey residents suffered from some kind of disability. Individuals in New Jersey had a variety of functional disabilities, including about 4% experiencing a hearing disability, 4% suffering from a visual disability, 9% having mobility challenges, 9% possessing a cognitive disability, and 6% having concerns about living independently. According to America's Health Rankings estimates, nearly 22.9% of adults in New Jersey will have developed arthritis by 2021.
According to the CDC's 2021 mortality report, the death rate for Parkinson's disease in New Jersey was approximately 8.7. The Department of Health (State of New Jersey) states that about 1.5 million residents in the state either have osteoporosis or are more prone to getting it.
Sources
WebMD
Healthline
New Jersey Department of Health
America's Health Rankings
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention[1]
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention[2]
American Physical Therapy Association
Verywell Health
Dayton Children's
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