Physical Therapists, or PTs for short, are medical professionals
concerned with maintaining, restoring and developing the complete range of
movement and function of the human body.
Normal movement and functioning can often be affected by orthopaedic
ailments and injuries and physical therapy helps to minimize and overcome these
problems. Physical therapists go
through a specific course of accredited education to prepare them for their
careers in rehabilitating patients. Training
for PTs also typically includes clinical internships and all PTs must pass a
formal exam before they can begin to practice.
Although there are a variety of types of physical therapists, most PTs
have either a Master’s or Doctorate level education upon entering their
profession. PTs also may chose to
obtain additional certification for rehab of specific body parts like the
hand. Our PTs play a critical role in
preventing some patients from needing surgery and helping others on their road
to recovery after a surgery has occurred.
Occupational Therapists (OTs) are closely
related to PTs, but with a slightly different focus. While PTs tend to concentrate on motor function, muscle
development, strength, balance and range of motion, OTs focus on helping
patients perform their daily activities and maintain or improve their
independence. The best patient outcomes
are often achieved when the skills of PTs and OTs are combined in the course of
treatment.