The musculoskeletal system plays the central role in facilitating the movement of our entire bodies. If there is damage to the muscles, bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments, it becomes very difficult or even impossible to accomplish normal daily tasks.
This is why orthopedic physical therapy is essential for anyone who is experiencing pain, weakness, swelling, stiffness, or immobility in the muscles, bones, or joints. This kind of physical therapy aids in improving the musculoskeletal system’s functionality as well as in the recovery process in case of injuries.
What Causes Orthopedic Pain?
Conditions that are often treated in orthopedic physical therapy include:
- physical therapy
- Rotator cuff tears (in the shoulder)
- Chronic hip pain
- Foot and ankle injuries
- Arm, wrist, and hand problems
- Shoulder fractures
- Spinal conditions
- Arthritis
Treatment Provided in Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Orthopedic physical therapy begins with a thorough evaluation of the patient’s overall health condition. This is critical to developing a system of therapy that fits the needs of the patient.
Throughout the entire treatment process, the therapist will regularly assess the patient for improvements in range of motion, strength, balance, posture, and endurance. The exercises will be modified as necessary to focus on specific areas that require extra conditioning.
This therapy may include stimulation using methods other than exercise and manual therapy, such as:
- Heat
- Ice
- Laser
- Electricity
- Dry needling
- Ultrasound
What Does Physical Therapy Do for Pain?
These techniques are intended to facilitate blood flow, which helps make everything work and feel better physically. They also help to minimize swelling and inflammation of the muscles and joints. In the process, the flexibility of the bones and joints will also improve.
The therapist will help retrain the patient’s body in order to regain its original range of motion. This can include soft-tissue massage, which is intended to relieve stiffness in the muscles. There could also be hands-on manual therapy wherein the therapist would start moving the patient’s joints and muscles in order to increase flexibility and blood flow – and reduce pain.
If the patient experienced an orthopedic injury, assistive devices such as canes, walkers, crutches, slings, or braces could also be incorporated in this therapy and in the recuperation. These devices are intended to alleviate pain and disability.
Orthopedic Surgeon in Little Rock
Dr. William F. Hefley is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who has been in practice since 1990. He specializes in minimally invasive surgeries of the knee, hip, and shoulder, and he is trained and experienced in arthroscopic procedures.
At Bowen Hefley Orthopedics, he works closely with a team of physical therapists who have extensive experience in treating orthopedic and sports-related injuries. Our therapists focus on improving your strength, mobility, balance, coordination, flexibility, speed, and endurance. Our goal is to guide you through the recovery process – and to help you quickly return to your normal activities once again.
Feel free to call us at (800) 336-2412 to schedule a consultation, or request an appointment online now. We can’t wait to help start you on your journey toward recovery, wellness, and a more pain-free lifestyle.
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