Physical therapy (PT) is an allied health profession. Physical therapists (PTs) play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic injuries, including sports related injuries. Troy Wilczek PT, DPT and Kayla Lovell PT, DPT, ATC, physical therapists at St. Mary’s Center for Rehabilitation (CFR), answer some common questions about their profession below.
What do physical therapists do?
To practice as a physical therapist, one must complete three years of didactic and clinical coursework to earn a doctorate of physical therapy (DPT). PTs are also required to pass a national licensure exam.
At CFR, PTs provide a hands-on, one-on-one experience to diagnose and treat a variety of injuries and conditions for individuals of all ages. PTs aim to improve your quality of life by reducing pain and returning you to the activities you love, while also preventing further injury.
Why physical therapy?
Physical therapy has several benefits. It can be utilized for pain management and reduced usage of pain medication, and recovery from a sports-related injury and other orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions. PT can help improve balance for fall prevention and may help delay/avoid the need for surgery. However, if your condition does require surgery, PT also plays a crucial role in helping you recover from that procedure.
What should I expect when I attend physical therapy?
Your initial visit will consist of a detailed physical examination to assess your range of motion, flexibility, strength, balance and movement patterns to determine the root of your pain. This exam will help develop an individualized treatment plan.
At subsequent visits, your therapist will guide you through exercises and treatments targeted to address your individual deficits and concerns. These tasks are consistently progressed as your condition improves, with the end goal of returning you to the activities you love.
Visit stmarysregional.com to learn more about our PT services.
Physicians are on the medical staff of St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.
