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By Chasity Sheppard


In looking for the services of a physical therapist Sterling VA residents should be well conversant with what their job entails. They provide services that help in restoration of function, improvement of mobility, pain relief and prevention of permanent physical disability in individuals suffering from various injuries or disease. They help in promotion and maintenance of overall fitness and health. Among their patients are accident victims and people that have disabling conditions like arthritis, heart disease and fractures.

To begin with, the medical history of the patients is examined. This is done together with measurement of strength, motor functions and posture. After this, plans are developed to be used to form strategy of treatment and the outcome that is expected. Through setting of the treatment strategy, the patient is effectively taken care of.

Exercising is one of the used treatment options. It comes in handy for people that have lost their moving ability, endurance, flexibility and lack strength. The therapists encourage their patients to make use of their muscles to enhance range of motion as well as flexibility. More advanced exercises are designed for improvement of balance, coordination and strength. These are meant to improve functioning of the patient both at home and at the office.

For purposes of relieving pain and reducing swellings, there is the use of electrical stimulation, hot packs, ultrasound and cold compresses. In addition, there is the use of deep-tissue massage and traction for improvement of circulation and enhancement of flexibility. Patients are also taught how to use prostheses and crutches, plus ways in which they can do exercises. There is documentation of the patient progress as their treatment continues. They are also examined periodically.

Physical therapists work closely with professionals from many other fields. Such professionals include dentists, educators, audiologists and nurses. Some of the therapists treat many ailments, while others specialize. Some of the fields they specialize in are pediatrics, neurology and sports medicine.

Their places of practice are clinics, hospitals and private offices. The work that physical therapists do is very demanding because they are required to at most times stoop, kneel, crouch and stand for long periods of time. Further, the equipment that they deal with is heavy and they will once in a while be required to lift it. Full-time therapists have working hours in the range of 40 every week. There are also those that work during weekends, evenings or even round the clock.

When it comes to their training, they should have a Masters degree and thereafter get licensed before they are allowed to practice in the given state. Licensing requires that one graduates from an accredited institution. Besides that, they would have to pass licensing examinations that may be varied from state to state.

In consideration of the services of a physical therapist Sterling VA residents can get their preferred professionals in a number of ways. Perhaps the most used is the internet because most therapists advertise their services online. In addition, there is the use of other modes of advertisement like television and newspapers.




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