Who is a physical therapist?
Physical therapists are trained experts in the physical movement of the human body. They may diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of illnesses – acute conditions like sprains and chronic diseases like diabetes – injuries, and disabilities. Physical therapists aim to improve a person’s quality of life by recommending exercises, rehabilitation techniques, and medical equipment (such as assistive devices). They may also use hands-on techniques to help patients. Individuals of all ages, including newborns and older adults, can receive physical therapy.
In some cases, physical therapy may supplement ongoing treatment or be part of patients’ post-operative care plans. Some conditions require physical therapy in addition to other treatment options like surgery and medication. Physical therapy may be different for each individual, depending on their condition. Ideally, your physical therapist will create a plan that includes exercises suited to your specific needs.
Besides diagnosing and treating movement disorders, physical therapists also help individuals achieve their fitness goals, maintain their independence, and lead active lives even if they are not suffering from any illness. Preventive care is also an essential part of physical therapy. A physical therapist educates patients and their families on restoring function in an injured body part or area and preventing further injury with correction exercises.
Physical therapist: education and specialties
Since a physical therapist is not a doctor or physician, they cannot prescribe medication and perform surgery. However, they are certified healthcare professionals who must gain a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree by enrolling in an accredited physical therapist education program and passing a state licensure examination.
During the three-year DPT course, aspiring physical therapists study subjects like anatomy, cellular histology, physiology, neuroscience, pharmacology, pathology, behavioral sciences, biomechanics, and kinesiology. They also need approximately 28 weeks of experience working in a clinical setting.
Further, some physical therapists may choose to complete advanced courses in specialties such as musculoskeletal issues, cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, oncology, neurology, pediatrics, orthopedics, and sports. Some may also choose to become board-certified clinical specialists by passing an American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties exam.
How is a physical therapist different from a chiropractor?
Physical therapists are similar to chiropractors in that both specialists help patients have better body movement and an understanding of managing pain for patients with chronic health conditions or injuries. However, both specialists use different approaches to treat patients.
Chiropractors generally focus on pain relief and alignment of the spine using their hands to manipulate and correct the alignment of a body part. They use appropriate ways to apply pressure and force to do this. Physical therapists also perform manipulations, typically including stretching and strengthening exercises as a treatment. Additionally, they focus on how the body functions and moves as a whole.
Further, physical therapists work in various environments and may not need to use special equipment. However, chiropractors sometimes require a dedicated practice area and special equipment to perform manipulations. Physical therapists can treat conditions of the upper and lower extremities, whereas chiropractors focus on the spine and joints of the body.
What conditions can physical therapists manage?
Physical therapists generally manage musculoskeletal conditions affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. They also use exercises for progressive conditions that may cause muscle loss.
Physical therapy can treat sports injuries and restore normal function after a traumatic or disabling event, like a stroke. They may also help cancer patients regain strength after radiation therapy.
Here are some common conditions treated using physical therapy:
- Arthritis
- Stroke
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Osteoporosis
- Dislocated shoulder
- Knee injuries and pain
- Chronic back pain
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Vertigo
- Migraines and headaches
- Cerebral Palsy
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Traumatic brain Injuries
What are the benefits of physical therapy?
Physical therapy has several benefits, not only for those suffering from health issues but also for those who simply want to lead a healthier lifestyle. Some well-known benefits of physical therapy include the following:
- Recovering from sports injuries faster and improving athletic performance
- Reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation that may occur due to an illness or injury
- Shortening post-surgery recovery
- Improving strength, flexibility, and range of motion
- Preventing future injuries
Are occupational therapy and physical therapy different?
Physical therapy and occupational therapy are both valuable healthcare professions that aim to enhance a person's functional abilities, but they differ in their primary objectives.
Physical therapy concentrates on addressing specific physical issues or injuries. It is commonly used to alleviate pain and stiffness, especially during recovery following surgery or injury. Physical therapists design tailored treatment plans to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility in affected body areas. Their focus is on restoring physical health and function.
Conversely, occupational therapy focuses on enhancing a person's ability to perform basic everyday activities and maintain independence. The term "occupation" here doesn't solely refer to work-related tasks but encompasses all daily activities. Occupational therapists assist individuals in regaining skills necessary for tasks like using a computer, grocery shopping, or dressing independently. Their goal is to promote autonomy and overall well-being.
What should one expect during a physical therapist visit, and how can you prepare for one?
When visiting a physical therapist near you, prepare for your initial appointment by arriving early to complete the necessary paperwork. Typically, physical therapists provide these forms on their websites. Bring relevant insurance adjuster or manager contact details and claim numbers if your therapy is related to a workplace injury or auto accident.
Attire plays a role in your appointment; inquire about suitable clothing when scheduling. You should expect to engage in various movements, so choose a comfortable dress that allows flexibility. For upper-body issues, select a shirt offering easy access to your shoulder, arm, or back, and opt for shorts if addressing hip, knee, or ankle concerns.
During your first visit to the physical therapist, they will want to learn more about your medical history. They will discuss your pain, capabilities, daily challenges, goals, and treatment preferences. They will also conduct a thorough examination, encompassing palpation, mobility evaluations, range of motion measurements, balance tests, strength assessments, and neurological screenings. Expect clear instructions throughout the examination, and anticipate receiving at-home exercises to support your progress between appointments.
By following these steps and actively participating in your therapy plan, you can maximize your physical therapy experience, work towards improved well-being, and enhance your mobility.
Find a physical therapist in Pompano Beach, Florida
Physical therapists understand the body’s biomechanics and can help you improve your range of movement, agility, posture, and balance. So, if you are experiencing musculoskeletal pain or have a chronic illness, you must consider seeing a physical therapist near you. They can effectively manage your condition for long-term relief and benefits.
The first step for ensuring good physical health is to connect with an experienced physical therapist who is the right fit for you. This may seem like an overwhelming task, especially if you are looking in a specific area, say, Pompano Beach, Florida. This is where Zocdoc can help you!
On the Zocdoc website, you can book online as well as in-person consultations with experienced providers in and around your location within a matter of minutes! You need not even leave your home, as you can do everything from searching to booking appointments on Zocdoc online.
To begin, simply enter your condition or symptoms, location, insurance plan or provider, and your preferred date for the appointment in the Zocdoc search box. Then, browse through the displayed list of top-rated physical therapists and select the one that meets all your requirements. You can filter out this list based on factors such as office location, distance, wait time, gender, hospital affiliation, and whether a provider treats children.
Moreover, on Zocdoc, you can book consultations on the same day, in advance, and even on the weekends! To check a provider’s availability throughout the month, click the “Book online” and “View all availability” tabs. Under the “view profile and reviews” tab, you will find each provider’s medical background, including their specialties, licenses, certifications, and awards.
Further, you can browse through each provider’s profile section and see their background, education, specialties, etc., and also see verified reviews and ratings by past patients. This way, you can better understand which healthcare provider or specialist will be the right fit for you.
Finally, remember that booking appointments with a physical therapist near you on Zocdoc is fast, secure, and 100% free!
Statistics for conditions treated with physical therapy in Pompano Beach, Florida
According to the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), in May 2021, the state of Florida employed nearly 13,220 physical therapists. This is the fourth-highest employment rate in the country, following California, New York, and Texas. As per the same source, the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metropolitan area employs one of the highest numbers of physical therapists (3,730) in the United States.
The 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data estimates that nearly 12% of Floridians have mobility issues, i.e., they face severe difficulty in walking or climbing stairs. Roughly 6% find it difficult to run errands alone, and 3% find it difficult to bathe or dress themselves. Florida adults with disabilities are also more likely to suffer from depression, obesity, and heart disease.
Data collated by the Florida Department of Health from 2019–2021 shows that nearly 16,477 people in Broward County, including Pompano Beach, were hospitalized due to a stroke. In 2019, an estimated 20.4% of adults residing in Broward County had some form of arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, or lupus. Physical therapy can treat all of these conditions.
Sources
American Physical Therapy Association
Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Verywell Health[1]
Verywell Health[2]
Healthline[1]
Healthline[2]
Florida Department of Health[1]
Florida Department of Health[2]
Stanford Healthcare
Cleveland Clinic
Verywell Health[3]
