When To Consult With A Physical Therapist San Francisco, CA

By Iva Cannon


A physical therapist or physiotherapist is a health care worker who evaluates various parts of the human body that are not functioning well or are healing. This professional treats all kinds of patients, including the elderly, children and athletes. You can consult with a physiotherapist if you have sustained severe injuries after an accident, suffered a stroke, experiencing back pain or lost a leg or an arm.

People who suffer from chronic ailments that cause pain or reduce range of motion, such as arthritis or osteoarthritis can also consult with a physiotherapist. People who have lower back pain, balance problems, chronic fatigue or pain as well as abdominal pressure that causes incontinence can also see a physiotherapist. If they consult with a physical therapist San Francisco, CA inhabitants can receive effective treatment.

Physiotherapists use a number of techniques to minimize stiffness, minimize pain, increase range of motion and strength. Some of these techniques include applying ice or heating pads to the affected areas, ultrasound and electrical stimulation. They can also use traditional, hand on strategies to treat patients.

In general, physiotherapists offer their services in medical centers, clinics, nursing homes, the offices of physicians, their own clinics and learning institutions. Some physical therapists also travel to the homes of patients who are unable to travel and treat them there. These health care professionals know a lot about treating disorders of the neuromuscular or musculoskeletal system.

After scheduling the first appointment with a patient, a physiotherapist first evaluates his or her injuries. The professional considers if the patient is feeling pain or finding it difficult to move certain body parts. The professional can also contact the primary care physician of the patient to get additional information about the problem he or she is suffering from. The physiotherapist will also seek to learn as much as possible about the condition from the patient.

A physiotherapist may ask you how the injury happened, the first time the problem begun and whether your condition has been worsening. The professional may also ask you whether you have ever suffered from this problem in the past, whether you have received treatment from any other medical professional or whether you have taken medicines meant to treat the disorder. This professional may also ask you questions about your career, your interests or favorite activities and your work responsibilities.

Physiotherapists also monitor the physical condition of their patients as they try to move the bodies in various ways such as bending, walking or reaching. This allows them to determine how well a person can move. They can also use their hands to feel various muscles and note the moisture level and body temperature of a person.

The physiotherapists can also test whether your muscles are strong and if your senses are working well. He or she can conduct a special examination such as nerve response tests and specialized muscle studies if you have back, neurology or neck problems. After the professional evaluates your condition, he or she will methodically examine the information and devise an effective treatment plan.

In some cases, physical therapists advise their patients to utilize therapeutic medical devices such as artificial limbs, wheelchairs, canes, braces and crutches. Hiring a competent physiotherapist is essential. To find such a professional, San Francisco residents can seek recommendations from the family doctors or from relatives or friends who have recently consulted with a physiotherapist.




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