Did you know that October is National Physical Therapy Month? Established in 1981 by the National Physical Therapy Association (APTA), this month is a time to raise awareness about how these professionals help us live better lives. Physical therapists and assistants help people with injuries and disabilities improve their mobility and manage pain. They play an important part in rehabilitation, treatment and preventative health of patients with chronic conditions, illnesses and/or injuries.
How do they help?
Physical therapists typically do the following:
- Review patients’ medical history and any referrals or notes from other healthcare providers
- Diagnose patients’ functions and movements by observing them stand or walk and listening to their concerns
- Develop individualized plans of care for patients
- Use exercises, stretching techniques, hands-on therapy and equipment to ease patients’ pain, help them increase their mobility, prevent further pain or injury and facilitate health and wellness
- Evaluate and record a patient’s progress, modifying a plan of care and trying new treatments as needed
- Educate patients and their families about what to expect from the recovery process and how best to cope with challenges throughout the process
Physical therapist assistants may do the following:
- Observe patients before, during and after therapy, noting the patient’s status and reporting it to a physical therapist
- Help patients do specific exercises as part of their plan of care
- Treat patients, using a variety of techniques, such as massage and stretching
- Use devices and equipment, such as walkers, to help patients perform activities
- Educate patients and family members about what to do after treatment
At McGuffey Healthcare, our physical therapists and assistants are invaluable members of our care team. They provide our residents with the professional and moral support they need to reach their personal goals. We are proud to have a group of dedicated professionals working here and glad they chose to share their talents with us. We appreciate everything that they do for our residents and their families. Happy National Physical Therapy Month to all!
