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Friday, April 24, 2015

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.

Physical therapists use various methods to minimize stiffness, minimize pain and increase strength and body motion. They include ultrasound, electrical stimulation and application of heating or ice pads to the affected areas. These professionals can also treat patients using traditional, hands on techniques.

Physical therapists usually work in clinics, medical centers, the offices of doctors, nursing homes, schools or their own clinics. Some physiotherapists can also come to your home to treat you if you cannot travel. These professionals are knowledgeable about treating all kinds of musculoskeletal or neuromuscular dysfunctions.

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.

A physiotherapist will also watch your physical condition as you attempt to move in different ways like reaching, bending or walking. He or she will try to determine how well you can move. The professional may use his or her hands to feel your muscles and note your moisture level and temperature.

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.

The physiotherapist can also recommend the use of mobility assistance devices such as braces, crutches and canes, wheelchairs or artificial limbs. Finding a qualified physical therapist in San Francisco is essential. You may ask your general practitioner or people who have used physiotherapy services recently to give you recommendations.




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