Physical therapy has become very vital in the recovery and rehabilitation of patients suffering from various medical conditions, particularly those that involve the musculoskeletal system and disorders that affect a person’s mobility. To those who may not be too familiar with physical therapy, this treatment method involves more than just physical exercises.
Various tools or modalities are applied in this method of treatment, which have also been found to be very effective, based on scientific studies and personal experiences of patients. Among the more common methods are the following:
Electrical Stimulation
The use of electrical stimulation has been shown to be very effective in managing pain in patients, as well as promoting recovery of the affected body parts. This method works by stimulating injured muscles and tissues through an electrical current that is controlled from a device. The most popular form of electrical stimulation is the TENS or the transcutaneous electrical neuromuscular stimulation.
Ultrasound Therapy
Another form of physical therapy that has been shown to be effective is the use of ultrasound. This treatment involves deep heating using an ultrasound machine in order to treat various musculoskeletal conditions such as sprains, strains, and the numerous joint disorders. Under the ultrasound therapy, an instrument similar to a wand is pressed into the affected area and stimulated using circular movements. Gel is used in this method to facilitate absorption of the ultrasound waves into the skin and muscles.
Hot and Cold Application
Hot and cold applications still remain a potent method in treating various forms of injuries. The use of heat brings pain relief, relaxation to the muscles, and increased circulation in the injured parts. Under physiotherapy, the therapist may use hot packs on the patient for about 15 to 20 minutes. Cold packs are also used to reduce the pain as well as to address any swelling or inflammation. This application is normally used during the initial management of the injury sustained by the patient.
Laser Therapy
Also gaining wide acceptance today is the use of laser therapy which has been found to be an effective treatment of pain, inflammation, and healing of wounds. This method uses light from a device and which is set at a certain wavelength, its strength depending on the degree of the injury. In actual treatment, the therapist uses an instrument that is held directly over the injury part of the body for a specific duration. Recent studies have shown a number of medical conditions may benefit hugely from the use of laser therapy.
Massage Therapy
While initially considered as a complementary therapy, the use of massage today has been recognized as a part of mainstream medical treatment. There are so many types of massage therapies which each type having each own set of benefits that a patient may enjoy. In addition to providing relaxation, improving circulation and easing of muscle tension, massage therapy has been found to be effective in addressing specific medical conditions particularly those that involve the musculoskeletal system.
