Key Concepts Regarding Physical Therapy Wilmington Residents May Find Worthwhile

By Harold Powell


In the course of work or play, a person may sustain some form of bone or soft tissue injury that requires physical therapy (physiotherapy) in order to restore function of the affected system. Common sporting activities that result in these kinds of injuries include rugby, football, athletics and extreme sports among others. Road traffic accidents are also well-known to cause serious injuries that may require long term rehabilitation. These are some of the essentials on physical therapy Wilmington residents may find beneficial.

The value of history taking, physical examination and investigations can never be underestimated in managing patients that require physiotherapy. Indeed, they go a long way in providing the correct diagnosis and creating a management plan for the patient. Taking history involves the doctor asking the patient certain questions including basic personal details as well as specific characteristics of their condition.

Once the history has been taken, the physiotherapist proceeds to examine the client. The aim is to rule out any other conditions that may affect the plan of management. It is also done to determine the severity of the condition in question and what needs to be done to relieve pain. As part of investigations, blood is drawn and a number of relevant tests run in the laboratory. Imaging studies are also used frequently.

Physical therapy is more than just simple exercises. It incorporates massaging to relieve pain and relax fatigued muscles. It also entails providing various devices for patients with skeletal injuries. These could be in the form of traction kits, braces and corsets among other supportive devices. Other than exercises and supportive equipment, PT aims at educating clients on the best way to achieve good function while at home or in the work place. Since these individuals may not stay at the physiotherapy center twenty four hours daily.

The treatment is a diverse concept that involves various systems in the body. One can decide to specialize in the pulmonary, cardiovascular, integumentary, geriatric systems or electrophysiology. Respiratory physiotherapy entails massaging the chest area to facilitate the removal of respiratory tract secretions. It enables the patient to cough thereby clearing the throat. Some of the conditions that result in an obstructed respiratory tract include stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cystic fibrosis.

Secretions tend to accumulate in the upper and lower respiratory tract in all humans. Naturally, these secretions are forced out through coughing. Very sick patients may not be able to achieve this. In such cases, the cough reflex is triggered through manual physical therapy of the chest area. Diseases such as cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD are just but a few examples of diseases requiring this intervention.

Physiotherapists also have a role to play in diseases affecting the skin, commonly burns and wounds. Specialists aim at minimizing infections and managing pain and swelling. The specialty entails irrigation of wounds, dressing, splinting and compression among other appropriate measures.

To conclude, it should be stated that physiotherapy is extremely helpful not just for patients with muscle, bone and joint issues but also for those in whom neurological, cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions have been diagnosed. The treatment incorporates physical exercises, manual manipulation and electrophysiological measures.




About the Author: