Friday, April 10, 2015

When To Consult With A Physical Therapist San Francisco, CA

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.

You may also seek the assistance of a physiotherapist if you have a chronic disorder that is causing pain or limited range of motion such as arthritis or osteoarthritis. You may also use physiotherapy services if you are suffering from chronic fatigue or chronic pain, abdominal pressure, lower back pain or balance problems. By using the services of a physical therapist San Francisco, CA residents can undergo rehabilitation.

Physiotherapists employ various methods to reduce stiffness, reduce pain and increase strength as well as body motion. These methods include applying heat or ice pads to the affected body parts, electrical stimulation and ultrasound. In some cases, physiotherapists use conventional, hands on techniques 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.

During your initial consultation session with a physiotherapist, the professional will first examine your injuries. He or she will consider whether you are feeling pain or experiencing difficulties when moving certain body parts. This professional may also call your doctor to find out more about the disorder. He or she will also ask you several questions about the disorder.

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.

The physical therapist will also examine your physical condition by looking at you when you try to move your body in different ways such as when walking, bending or reaching. The professional will consider if you can move normally. He or she can also note your temperature and moisture level by using the hands to feel your muscles.

A physiotherapist may also test for degree of sensation and muscle strength. If you have neck, back or neurological problems, the professional may perform special examinations. Examples of these examinations include specialized muscle studies and nerve response tests. After evaluating your condition, the professional will analyze the information and create a treatment plan.

A physiotherapist can also advise you to use therapeutic medical devices like crutches and canes, braces, artificial limbs and wheelchairs. For the best outcome, you should hire a competent physiotherapist in San Francisco. To find such a professional, you may ask your family doctor, relatives or friends to provide you with recommendations.




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