Physical Therapy
The foundation of a conservative approach to the treatment of spinal disorders is physical therapy. Physical therapy provides diagnostic information for the physician and a number of valuable therapeutic interventions for the patient. Although pain control may seem the most obvious benefit to the patient, physical therapy is designed to do much more. From improving posture and core muscular strength, to increasing the flexibility of underutilized muscles and normalizing gait, physical therapy is multi-dimensional. Depending upon a patient’s specific needs, therapy may be used to simply help someone walk after a major reconstructive surgery, or it may be used to focus the energies of an elite athlete to mobilize a dysfunctional sacroiliac joint.
Physical therapy is work. Some forms may be considered passive, such as the use of massage and hot packs to restore blood flow to an injured area, while others are considered active, such as performing the prescribed stretching exercises on a daily basis at home. Both passive and active therapies require patient participation. Our spine specialists and physical therapists work together to give our patients the tools and the training needed to get better. The ultimate success or failure of physical therapy often lies with the patient’s dedication to the treatment program.
Our physical therapy services include:
- Aquatic therapy
- Manual therapy
- Manipulation
- Exercise/conditioning programs
- Work conditioning/FCE
- Pilates/Yoga classes
