Medical & Orthopedic Rehabilitation
Amputation
Whether traumatic or non-traumatic causes of amputation, our goal is to rehab our patients to regain maximum function. Several steps of the process include making sure there is proper fit of the prosthesis, strengthening of the residual limb for optimal function, identifying and correcting gait deviations for maximizing gait efficiency and integrating functional activities during treatment into action in your daily activities.
Burns and Wounds
Treatment for small to medium burns as well as venous stasis ulcers, diabetic ulcers and general wounds is available.
Headaches
Some causes of headaches can be related to stress, tension, circulation, nutrition, cervical dysfunction and even postural problems. Treatment may include use of modalities, manual therapy techniques, traction, biofeedback training and exercise. We also to try and identify causative factors or triggers for headaches and provide comprehensive information for patients to self-manage their headaches.
Extremity Orthopedics
Orthopedic physical therapy includes the diagnosis, management, and treatment of disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal system including rehabilitation after orthopedic surgery. This specialty of physical therapy is most often found in the out-patient clinical setting. Orthopedic therapy includes special emphasis training in the treatment of post-operative orthopedic procedures, fractures, acute sports injuries, arthritis, sprains and strains.
Joint mobilization/manipulation, therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular reeducation, hot/cold packs, and electrical muscle stimulation are modalities often used to expedite recovery in the orthopedic setting. Those who have suffered injury or disease affecting the muscles, bones, ligaments, or tendons will benefit from assessment by physical therapists with training in orthopedics.
Spinal Dysfunction
Neck and back pain can be debilitating conditions that affect every aspect of your day. We use a variety of assessment and treatment techniques including McKenzie and Maitland. Postural retraining and spinal stabilization/core strengthening are the mainstays of our approach to treatment of spinal dysfunction. Other treatment interventions may include mechanical traction, soft tissue mobilization and Graston technique. Aquatic therapy is especially beneficial in the treatment of patients with chronic lower back pain since this allows a gravity reduced environment in which a patient can exercise.
TMJ – Temporomandibular Joint
Patients are typically referred by dentists and oral maxillofacial surgeons for the treatment of TMJ disorders for conservative care, as well as post operative treatment. Other conditions that are related to TMJ problems include myofascial disorders, cervical dysfunction and headache. Most TMJ symptoms are related to faulty postural, myofascial tightness and habits such as clenching and bruxism. Most patients respond in a very positive manner to physical therapy intervention and are able to learn self-help techniques to eliminate or keep their symptoms under control.
Total Joint Replacement
Knees, hips and shoulders are by far one of our most common surgical patients. Most patients already have a head start by participating in the Joint Programs at several area hospitals. We use that basic program and progress it into a well rounded routine including range of motion, stretching, strengthening and incorporate functional activities. Ambulation on even and uneven surfaces and stairs is addressed, as well as stooping and squatting. Some aquatic therapy can also be incorporated into the post-surgical care of a total joint patient if needed to help facilitate proper walking, balance, strength or mobility.
One of the best things a patient expecting to undergo total hip or total knee surgery can do is to participate in a Pre-Hab program. We are convinced that the better shape a person goes into surgery, the better shape they are coming out. You will also have a head start on your motion and strength by working on it in advance of your surgery. If exercise is painful due to the advanced joint arthritis, then the Pre-Hab program can be performed in the pool which is much kinder to your joints.