Types of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is something you must have heard about or undergone at some point in time. It is fairly popular amongst individuals of all ages and has been practiced for decades. What’s interesting is that despite being beneficial to people is so many ways, it still remains underrated. Physical Therapy is not just one word. It in itself encompasses a plethora of exercises and treatment regimes. There are various types of physical therapy which are available. Each type targets a different problem and tries to address it. In this segment, we bring you information on types of physical therapy.

1. Orthopedic

Orthopedic physical therapy is meant for restoring flexibility and function to the musculoskeletal system. This type also encompasses restoring function and mobility to tendons, ligaments, joints and bones. Many sports injuries are treated using this type of physical therapy since its non-invasive and helpful. A wide variety of exercises fall under this category of physical therapy. Some of them are stretching, endurance training, mobility exercise, hot or cold packs and strength exercises. Electrical muscle stimulation may also be done in some modern regimes.

2. Geriatric

This type of physical therapy focuses primarily on the unique movement and muscular needs of elderly adults. This type of physical therapy encompasses the treatment for conditions such as osteoporosis, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, joint replacement, cancer and balance disorders. The goal of geriatric physical therapy is to help in restoring lost mobility. Some regimens of this type of therapy are also targeted at reducing pain, accommodating physical limitations and increasing overall physical fitness.

3. Neurological

Neurological physical therapy focuses on dealing with a wide variety of neurological conditions and impairments. These include but are not limited to Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, brain injury, cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injury and brain stroke. Treatment plans under this type focus primarily on helping patients lead a more normal and easier life. By itself, this physical therapy is not a stand-alone treatment for any neurological conditions. However, this therapy can greatly supplement the healing process of a neurological disorder. It’s aimed at relieving pain and discomfort during the course of treatment.

4. Cardiopulmonary

This is two types of physical therapy known as Cardiovascular physical therapy and pulmonary physical therapy merged into one. It primarily focuses on treatment of individuals suffering from cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions These encompass but are not limited to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart attack and pulmonary fibrosis. This therapy mainly aims at achieving functional independence and muscular mobility.

5. Pediatric

Pediatric physical therapy is unique because it focuses on infants, toddlers, children and adolescents. It helps in proper development and flexibility of limbs and muscles. Pediatric Physical therapy is used for helping kids who suffer from diseases or injuries, including:

• Acute physical injury

• Birth defects

• Any developmental hiccups or delays

• Multiple genetic disorders

• Head trauma

• Limb disabilities and deficiencies

• Muscle problems and diseases

• Orthopedic disabilities and defects

A newer field known as vestibular rehabilitation is becoming popular. It focuses on improving the living conditions of people who are suffering from defects of the vestibular apparatus. Women Physical Therapy is also becoming popular since women have problems that plague their gender incessantly. It is targeted to benefit women hitting menopause and women who have given birth.

This wide variety of physical therapies can get confusing. It is best to visit professionals at places like Inspire health who can guide you in the right direction. Only with proper help and implementation can one truly realise the benefits of physical therapy. Enough of reading, it’s time you take the plunge and inculcate physical therapy in your life.