Orthopedic physical therapy: 4 warning signs it’s time to make an appointment

Many people have difficulty understanding the difference between physical therapists and orthopedic physical therapists. The biggest difference between the two is that orthopedic PTs have received extra training in orthopedics. Orthopedics is a specialty focused on the musculoskeletal system. This means they pay extra special attention to the bones, ligaments, joints, tendons and muscles in the body during treatment. 

What does an orthopedic physical therapist do?

Orthopedic physical therapists can perform a variety of treatments for their patients. Much in the same way that physical therapists do, orthopedic PTs specialize in working with the musculoskeletal system. Here are some ways that orthopedic physical therapists provide treatment:

• Build muscle strength — One of the ways that an orthopedic physical therapist can help someone is by building muscle strength. Muscle weakness can gradually cause several problems all across the body. Some examples include pelvic instability, back pain, joint instability and more. Building muscle strength throughout your body, especially in weaker areas, can provide a plethora of benefits. With better muscle strength, you’ll likely be able to walk, bend over and sit up with more ease.
• Release muscle tension — Another way that an orthopedic physical therapist treats their patients is by releasing muscle tension. Muscle tension can build up over time with both inactivity and too much activity. Excessive muscle tension can cause the body to become difficult to move without experiencing pain or discomfort. Physical therapy treatment can decrease this tension. Most orthopedic physical therapists use gentle exercise and soft tissue mobilization to break up the tension in the muscles.
• Gently exercise your musculoskeletal system — Orthopedic PTs can also use gentle exercise to work out your whole musculoskeletal system. They’ll guide you through a series of movements designed to target specific areas of weakness while ensuring that the whole body is worked to ensure maximum mobility.
• Teach you how to take care of your body — Orthopedic PTs can educate their patients on the right ways to take care of their bodies. They have extensive knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and can show you how you can keep your physical health at the level it needs to be for optimal performance and comfort.

How do you know if it’s time to make an appointment for orthopedic physical therapy?

There are several instances in which you could benefit from an orthopedic specialist’s care. Here’s how you know it’s time to make an appointment:

• You’re struggling to do your everyday activities — Are you struggling to complete the activities that you typically perform each day? If so, it’s time to schedule an appointment. Physical therapy can help you get back to your daily activities so you’re not struggling any more than you have to.
• Your joints are aching or causing discomfort — If your joints ache or cause you significant discomfort, it’s a good idea for you to visit an orthopedic specialist. They’ll be able to identify the source of your joint pain and address it during professional treatment.
• An old injury is causing you pain or discomfort — When an old injury starts to cause you pain or discomfort, it’s time to seek help. You shouldn’t have to struggle to manage pain from an injury you experienced years ago.
• You have difficulty moving comfortably — When you have trouble moving your body, or have stiffness and tightness in multiple areas of your body, you shouldn’t hesitate to seek professional treatment. An orthopedic physical therapist can work with you to improve your range of motion. 

RepairSI has experienced orthopedic physical therapists who can treat your condition

Our team at RepairSI aims to provide you with a level of high-quality treatment that can’t be found anywhere else. Our range of services includes physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture and fitness training. Your best physical, mental and spiritual life can be attained when you visit us for your care. We emphasize whole-body treatment, which means your care isn’t limited to just one problem area. Your overall wellness is the most important to us. That’s why we’ve partnered with our community to provide you with the innovative care and quality resources that you need to address your health and wellness. 

Each of our team members is committed to serving our community in a compassionate, professional manner to ensure the best possible outcomes. Whatever your reason for visiting us may be, you can feel confident that you’re getting high-quality care.

If your musculoskeletal condition is causing you persistent pain or discomfort, it’s time to consider orthopedic physical therapy. Our physical therapists can help you get on the path toward recovery. We have several orthopedic specialists who know just how to treat your condition and improve your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. We’d love to hear from you.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.