Pick a joint: neck, back, shoulder, hip, knee, foot or ankle. We use manual therapy and other effective techniques to reduce pain and address the underlying syndrome or dysfunction causing you pain or mobility issues. Our individualized home programs also reduce your risk of re-injury.
What is Orthopedic Therapy?
Orthopedic physical therapy is a specialized field of physical therapy that focuses on the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Orthopedic physical therapists work with individuals who have conditions such as arthritis, sports injuries, back pain, neck pain, and tendonitis. The goal of orthopedic physical therapy is to help individuals recover from injury, reduce pain and inflammation, increase mobility and strength, and prevent future injury.
How does Orthopedic Therapy work?
Orthopedic physical therapy typically begins with an evaluation of the individual’s condition and a physical examination to determine the cause of their pain or limitations. At ReNew PT, we use a test/retest model of evaluation to ensure the accuracy of our exam. The physical therapist will then develop a customized treatment plan that addresses the individual’s specific needs and goals. This plan may include exercises, manual therapy techniques and other treatments.
Exercise is a crucial component of orthopedic physical therapy. Physical therapists work with individuals to develop and implement a rehabilitation program that focuses on improving strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. These exercises may include stretching, strengthening, and range-of-motion exercises that are designed to help individuals regain normal joint function and reduce pain. Exercise is best utilized after a regiment of manual therapy is underway. ReNew PTs will not waste your time counting reps and will use the time in session to ensure the quality of your exercise technique.
Treatments Used in Orthopedic Therapy
Manual therapy techniques are very effective but not as common in orthopedic physical therapy mainly because less and less PTs are trained in it. These techniques include hands-on techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue mobilization, and trigger point release. These techniques help to reduce pain and inflammation, increase joint mobility, and improve range of motion
Modalities, such as heat and ice, are also commonly used in orthopedic physical therapy. Heat therapy, such as using a heat pack or hot towel, helps to increase blood flow and reduce pain and muscle spasms. Ice therapy, such as using an ice pack, helps to reduce swelling and inflammation, and numbs the area to reduce pain. These techniques are rarely used in ReNew PT mostly because they simply only reduce symptoms and have been shown not to address the root cause of pain.
Assistive devices, such as braces and splints, are also commonly used in orthopedic physical therapy. These devices help to support and stabilize joints, reducing pain and allowing individuals to perform exercises and activities with greater ease. Physical therapists will often fit individuals with the appropriate brace or splint and provide instructions on proper use and care. It’s is always ReNew PT’s model to eliminate your need and reliance on these devices as soon as possible!
Orthopedic physical therapy is also focused on injury prevention. Physical therapists work with individuals to identify and address any factors that may increase their risk of injury, such as poor posture, muscle imbalances, stiff joints or overuse. Physical therapists will then develop a treatment program that addresses these factors and helps to prevent future injury.
In addition to traditional physical therapy techniques, orthopedic physical therapists may also use cutting-edge technologies and treatments, such as dry needling, electrical stimulation, and laser therapy. Although popular, ReNew PT does not use ultrasound or TENS mainly because research has proven them to be ineffective at treating the root cause of pain. These technologies and treatments help to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and accelerate the healing process.
Orthopedic physical therapy is a collaborative process, and physical therapists often work with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, surgeons, chiropractors, massage therapists and occupational therapists, to provide comprehensive care for individuals with musculoskeletal conditions. This interdisciplinary approach helps to ensure that individuals receive the best possible care and achieve the best possible outcomes.
Start Orthopedic Therapy today
Orthopedic physical therapy is an essential component of care for individuals with musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Physical therapists help individuals to recover from injury, reduce pain and inflammation, increase mobility and strength, and prevent future injury. With a focus on exercise, manual therapy techniques, modalities, and assistive devices, orthopedic physical therapists provide a comprehensive and effective approach to treating musculoskeletal conditions. Schedule your appointment to start your recovery today.