What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy is the use of physical techniques, such as exercise and massage, to help restore the body's ability to move and function after an injury or surgery

Why choose physical therapy?

Physical therapy is a safe and effective way to improve mobility, reduce pain and promote healing.

Being drug-free and noninvasive, physical therapy is a good treatment to try before deciding on medication or surgery.
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Physical therapy can also be combined with other treatments to maximize recovery.

​How is physical therapy done?

In the beginning of therapy, the physical therapist evaluates a patient's current mobility issues in relation to his or her injury or surgery. A customized treatment plan is then developed which facilitates the patient’s return to normal physical functioning.

The therapy sessions may utilize different techniques, including exercise, manual therapy, ultrasound, heat and cold, electrical stimulation and light therapy. These methods work by reducing swelling, re-aligning joints and bones, relieving compressed nerves, restoring muscle balance and enhancing circulation.

​The therapist may also assign exercises to do at home and suggest strategies for preventing future injuries. 

When to go for physical therapy

Physical therapy is beneficial in a variety of situations. It can help:
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• Reduce or eliminate pain, such as low back pain.
• Avoid surgery: surgery may no longer be needed or can give a better outcome due to pre-surgery physical therapy.
• Improve mobility: this is accomplished by stretching and strengthening muscles and joints or by fitting the patient for a wheelchair, walker or cane.
• Rehabilitate weakened functions from a stroke.
• Recover from and prevent sports injuries.
• Speed healing and minimize recurrence for repetitive motion injuries: for example, carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow.
• Improve balance and prevent falls.
• Manage age-related issues: for example, arthritis, osteoporosis and joint replacement.
• Improve heart and lung function, such as after a heart attack.

• Manage diabetes and cardiovascular conditions: this includes mobility problems from diabetic nerve complications.

• Recover from women's health issues: for example, urinary and bowel incontinence after giving birth and lymphedema after breast cancer surgery.
• Improve children’s mobility problems, such as those associated with cerebral palsy.

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     >  Tuina Massage Therapy

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