How does Physiotherapy work?
Our Physiotherapy team here in Dowagiac helps take care of patients in all phases of healing, from initial diagnosis through the restorative and preventive stages of recovery. Physiotherapy may be a standalone option, or it may support other treatments.
Some patients are referred to our physical therapist by their doctor, but others seek therapy on their own. Whichever way a patient comes to see our physical therapy team, they can expect to:
- Undergo a physical exam and evaluation, including a health history and certain testing procedures, including evaluation of posture, movement and flexibility, and of muscle and joint motion and performance
- Receive a clinical diagnosis, prognosis, plan of care and short and long term goals
- Receive physical therapy treatment and intervention based on the therapist’s evaluation and diagnosis
- Receive self-management recommendations
Patients often train with our physical therapist in our Dowagiac clinic working on exercises that they can do at home, to help them function more effectively.
What to Expect During Physiotherapy
Our Physiotherapists in Dowagiac use many different techniques to help you decrease pain and stiffness, improve motion and strength, and improve mobility. Physical agents such as heat, ice, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation may be used. Manual techniques are often used to help improve mobility.
Therapeutic exercise is often used by physical therapists to help people gain range of motion, increase strength, and improve function. Patient education about a condition or illness is paramount to the practice of physical therapy, and therapists may use charts, models, and diagrams to help you understand your diagnosis and prognosis.
You may also be given modifications to make or exercises to do at home.
Common Reasons to See a Physiotherapist in Dowagiac
Some common problems that Physiotherapists evaluate and treat include:
- Stroke
- Fractures
- Spinal cord injury
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Sports injuries
- Amputations
- Arthritis
Know, however, that physical therapists can treat many other problems besides the ones listed. Be sure to consult our Chiropractic staff if you feel you may benefit from this treatment. When an injury or illness occurs that limits your ability to move about safely or normally, a referral to a physical therapist may be made. Physical therapists work to ensure a safe and rapid return to maximal function.
Benefits of Physiotherapy Treatment & Exercises
Depending on the reason for treatment, the benefits of physical therapy include:
- Pain management with reduced need for opioids
- Avoiding surgery
- Improved mobility and movement
- Recovery from injury or trauma
- Recovery from stroke or paralysis
- Fall prevention
- Improved balance
- Management of age-related medical problems
