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Physical Therapy

© Archana Khambekar

From overcoming functional limitations in carrying out daily activities to maximizing athletic potential in the sports arena, physical therapy is a health care specialty with wide ranging applications. Essentially this science addresses problems associated with the impairment of movement, the goal being to treat disabilities related to the neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary and integumentary systems of the human body.

The practice of physical therapy can be traced back to World War I when it was first administered to soldiers. Since then therapists have come to play an active role in the rehabilitation, prevention of injuries as well as promotion of fitness among diverse age groups of the population. This is evidenced in the many responsibilities that contemporary professionals undertake. To illustrate a broad outline of their functions is set out below. A physical therapist

--evaluates the disorder or dysfunction by performing tests to assess extent of the problem.

--develops a treatment plan and provide hands on assistance in patient's recovery through the use of modalities and techniques to lessen pain, facilitate muscle function and restore balance.

--teaches basic mobility skills such as learning to get out of bed, and walking with crutches or special devices on varied terrain to enable patients lead normal independent lives.

--educates on how to deal with a current disability and prevent it from recurring in the future.

--monitors the progress and adjusts the course of the treatment as appropriate.

--coordinates with other members of the health care team.

In addition, physical therapists contribute to biomedical research, education, and administration of health services. They perform in a variety of settings namely, hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, fitness and rehabilitation facilities, community health centers, home health agencies, corporate or industrial health centers, sports facilities, pediatric centers, research institutions, schools and universities. While some work as employees in these organizations, others prefer to go into their own private practice.

Being a physical therapist calls for a thorough knowledge of the structure, function, and movement of the human body. Many universities offer degree programs at various levels that provide an education in the competencies of this scientific discipline. The curricula structured to prepare physical therapy practitioners incorporate clinical medical science courses with experience in direct patient care in different facilities. After graduating from an accredited program students are eligible to take the licensure examination required to be a practicing physical therapist.

Physical therapy is among the fastest growing professions and one that is continually developing to meet rising health needs and challenges. Present day therapists can choose from a spectrum of specializations such as pediatrics, sports medicine, neurology, geriatrics, orthopedics, aquatic therapy, electrotherapy, occupational health, women's health, and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Their expertise presents unique opportunities to develop a niche area of practice and provide guidance and interventions to enhance function-based performance of their patients.

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