What to Expect from your Physical Therapy

So, you’re having your first physical therapy session. Congratulations! You’re on your way to recovery! At first, you may feel anxious about seeing your physical therapist, but there’s really nothing to worry about. In today’s blog post, we will talk about the step-by-step process of physical therapy programs. Read on.

If you develop an illness or suffer an injury that causes pain, discomfort or restricted mobility, a qualified Tampa physical therapist can help you. He or she will assess your condition to create a focused physical therapy program that will help you get back on track.

During the initial evaluation, a physical therapist in Tampa will conduct interviews and a physical examination. The objective is to learn more about your condition, including the severity of your injuries and how it affects your life. Your PT should also address the root cause of the problem. From there, he or she can now develop a data-driven physical therapy treatment plan.

Why is Tampa Physical Therapy Performed?

Doctors usually recommend physical therapy to restore functional mobility and relieve pain. Physical therapy programs are also designed to prevent injuries. However, it is vital to fully understand the patient’s condition before starting the program. Here are the reasons why you may need physical therapy services:

• Relieve and manage pain.
• Reduce stiffness caused by joint problems like gout, arthritis or spondylitis.
• Enhance quality of life for patients with certain health conditions, such as cancer and heart disease.
• Accelerate recovery after surgery.
• Restore mobility function and prevent further damage due to certain health conditions like stroke or Parkinson’s.

How is Physical Therapy Performed?

Physical therapists in Tampa usually work at a hospital or clinic. Some PTs also perform physical therapy sessions at home or a sports facility. At The Right Spinal Clinic, we invest in state-of-the-art physical therapy tools and equipment to provide our patients with the best possible results.

Tampa Physical therapy usually involves body stretching, balance exercises, strength conditioning, massage therapy, hands-on techniques, and lifestyle modifications. Physical therapy treatments may also require using therapeutic equipment when performing exercises or treating specific conditions.

For instance, a physical therapist may also require you to use a stationary bike or treadmill for conditioning. On the other hand, most strength exercises may involve using weights or bands and sometimes pool exercises to reduce impact. Other popular methods are heat and cold therapy, laser therapy, electrical stimulation and ultrasound.

Finding a Physical Therapist in Tampa, Fl 

Your healthcare provider may refer you to a physical therapist. But doing your own research is also a good idea. You can ask your family and friends or search online to look for more prospects. Check their client rating and read reviews to learn more about their programs. Another reliable source you can check is the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

If you are still looking for a reputable physical therapist in Tampa, FL, The Right Spinal Clinic is your go-to destination. Physical therapy is one of our specializations and we have helped countless patients fully recover from their injuries and illnesses. Allow our team of experienced physical therapists to develop an individualized PT program that will help you recover in no time!

Scheduling an Appointment 

Before booking your physical therapy session, find out if they have treated similar cases to your condition. Ask about their possible treatment plan. How do they conduct a physical therapy session? How long does it usually take? Do they have other services that can benefit your recovery? For example, some healthcare clinics in Tampa like The Right Spinal Clinic also offer innovative therapy like cryotherapy and IV drip therapy.

Additionally, do not hesitate to talk about the costs and their financing options. Many physical therapy institutions today accept major insurance plans. Just be sure to clarify if your treatment will be covered by your insurance to avoid discrepancies in the future.

How to Prepare for your Tampa Physical Therapy Session

In addition to research and background checking, be sure to list down the important details about your complaint or condition. Doing so will help you ask the right questions of your PT, so you can align your expectations.

Here are some of the questions to ask yourself:

• How did your problem start?
• What is your biggest complaint?
• When did your symptoms occur?
• How active were you prior to the injury?
• How is your current situation affecting you?

Your Tampa physical therapist will likely ask some questions about your condition. If you’re currently taking medications, be sure to inform your PT as well.

What to Wear 

There is no required outfit when going to your physical therapy session. Just wear something comfortable that will allow you to easily move around. Your physical therapist should brief you or recommend the right clothes for your sessions.

Initial Examination 

As mentioned earlier, your physical therapist needs to assess your condition by conducting  a thorough physical examination. Here are some of the things they need to determine:

• Oxygen level
• Pulse rate
• Range of motion
• Strength test
• Functional mobility
• Balance
• Neurological tests

Final Words 

Your relationship with your physical therapist is important to your recovery. That’s why you should never make impulsive decisions when choosing a physical therapist. A reliable PT should always encourage questions and provide you with a clear and concise explanation to your queries. You should also consider how they treat you.