Conditions Treated with Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a comprehensive form of treatment designed to help individuals recover from injuries, alleviate chronic pain, and restore mobility. Whether you’re dealing with an acute injury or managing long-term conditions, physical therapy is a proven, non-invasive way to promote healing and prevent further complications.

At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, located in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio, our expert team offers customized physical therapy treatments to help you regain your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Why Physical Therapy is Important

Physical therapy is not just about recovering from injury; it plays a vital role in maintaining and improving overall health. It’s important for preventing long-term disabilities, reducing the need for surgery, and managing pain without relying on medications. Patients who undergo physical therapy can experience significant improvements in their quality of life, with better mobility and decreased pain levels.

Moreover, physical therapy is a personalized approach. Every patient receives an individualized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs, whether they are recovering from surgery, dealing with a chronic condition, or aiming to improve overall mobility.

A physical therapist treating an elderly patient to help relieve muscle pain in Granville, Ohio.

Common Conditions That Can Improve with Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can effectively treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Arthritis

For individuals with arthritis, physical therapy helps reduce joint pain, improve flexibility, and strengthen muscles around the joints. Our personalized exercise plans can alleviate stiffness and enhance daily function.

2. Back Pain/Neck Pain

Chronic back or neck pain is often caused by poor posture, injuries, or conditions like degenerative discs. Through targeted physical therapy treatments, patients can experience pain relief and improved spinal alignment.

3. Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries, common in athletes and active individuals, often result in shoulder pain and limited mobility. Our physical therapists use exercises and manual therapy to restore strength and motion.

4. Bulging Discs/Sciatica

Conditions like bulging discs or sciatica can cause radiating pain, numbness, and weakness. Our therapists focus on reducing pressure on the spine and alleviating pain through exercises and manual techniques.

5. Balance and Fall Prevention

Physical therapy plays a critical role in preventing falls, particularly for older adults. We work on improving balance, strength, and coordination, helping patients stay mobile and independent.

6. Vestibular/Dizziness Issues

Patients dealing with dizziness or vestibular disorders benefit from physical therapy designed to improve balance and reduce symptoms of vertigo, allowing for greater stability and daily comfort.

7. Knee Pain

Whether caused by arthritis, injury, or overuse, knee pain can severely limit mobility. Physical therapy helps strengthen the muscles around the knee and improves flexibility, reducing pain and enhancing movement.

8. Muscle Strains/Weakness

Muscle strains and general weakness can result from injury, overuse, or aging. Through strength-building exercises, physical therapy helps restore physical function and prevent re-injury.

9. Ankle Pain

Ankle pain, often caused by sprains or other injuries, can limit movement and function. Physical therapy focuses on restoring strength and mobility, helping you return to your normal activities faster.

10. Acute and Chronic Injury Therapy

Whether you’re dealing with a recent injury or a long-term condition, physical therapy is crucial for recovery. Our therapists tailor treatments to both acute and chronic injuries to ensure optimal healing and function.

11. Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

After surgery, particularly for joint replacements or orthopedic procedures, physical therapy is crucial for regaining mobility and strength. Our team specializes in orthopedic physical therapy, ensuring a smooth recovery after surgery.

12. Return-to-Play Programs

For athletes recovering from injury, our return-to-play programs focus on gradually increasing strength, endurance, and flexibility to ensure a safe return to sports activities.

13. Sports Injuries

Our sports-specific rehabilitation programs are designed to address the unique demands of each sport, helping athletes recover from injuries while improving performance through targeted exercises.

14. Strength and Range-of-Motion Exercises

Physical therapy often includes strength and range-of-motion exercises to improve flexibility and build muscle. These exercises are key to recovery for many conditions, including post-surgical rehab and chronic pain management.

What to Expect from Physical Therapy

Physical therapy typically begins with an evaluation by a licensed physical therapist who will assess your condition and determine the best course of treatment. Expect to engage in various exercises, manual techniques, and perhaps even the use of equipment like resistance bands or treadmills.

Some treatments may also include modalities like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to reduce pain and inflammation. Throughout the process, you’ll receive guidance on how to perform exercises at home to complement in-office therapy.

Each physical therapy session lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. How long you’ll need physical therapy depends on the severity and type of condition being treated. Physical therapy is progressive, meaning that your exercises and treatments will evolve as your body strengthens and heals.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re dealing with pain, mobility issues, or recovering from surgery, don’t wait to get the care you need. Physical therapy is a powerful tool in your recovery and wellness journey.

At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, we serve patients in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio. Our team is ready to develop a personalized treatment plan that can help you regain strength, reduce pain, and improve your overall function. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment and take the next step toward a healthier, more active life!

Medically reviewed by ​​Eric Erb, MD