Physical Therapy Specialist

What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy is a type of care using movement, mechanical force, and targeted exercises to reduce pain and improve muscle function. It may be recommended after an injury, surgery, or an illness that’s made it difficult for you to return to your activities.

Physical therapy also helps restore function and promote healing after a joint replacement.

How can physical therapy help me?

The team of skilled physical therapists at Suburban Medical & Wellness Center work with patients of all ages and medical needs. Some of the most common reasons you may need physical therapy include:

• Rehabilitation after a stroke, illness, or injury
• Managing pain in the knees, shoulders, or back
• Recovery from a sports injury
• Neck or back pain
• Joint replacement
• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or rotator cuff tear
• Tendonitis

Physical therapy may also be recommended to help you manage a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes or heart disease.

As a practice focused on wellness, the team at Suburban Medical & Wellness Center may develop a home exercise program for you that fits your individualized health and fitness needs.

What can I expect during physical therapy?

Before you begin physical therapy, the therapist wants to learn about your medical history, current symptoms, and how they’re affecting your daily life. The therapist then conducts tests to assess your strength, coordination, balance, and fitness.  

Once the therapist has the necessary information, they create an exercise plan to help you get back to your usual activities. The plan may include:

• Exercise program to build strength
• Stretching to improve range of motion
• Heat or cold therapy
• Myofascial release
• Ultrasound or electrical stimulation

Your plan also includes goals and how often you need to come to the clinic for therapy.

What happens after physical therapy?

After physical therapy, you may need to continue a home exercise program to maintain strength, coordination, and balance. A home exercise program also reduces pain and discomfort by improving your body strength and mechanics, which improves overall function and prevents unnecessary pain from developing.

To start physical therapy, call Suburban Medical & Wellness Center today or schedule an appointment online.