If you have pain or restricted movement that limits your normal activities, physical therapy (PT) treatment is designed to help you obtain relief and restore your independence.

PT promotes healing and is designed to improve your quality of life. Specific outcomes can include less pain, increased flexibility and range-of-motion, stronger muscles, better balance and coordination, and improved stamina.

Whether you are dealing with a chronic condition, or are recovering from an injury, surgery or illness, ask your doctor about receiving physical therapy.

If you have had any of the following, physical therapy (PT) is often recommended:

• Orthopedic surgery, such as hip-or-knee replacement, back or rotator cuff surgery
• After-effects of cancer treatment, including fatigue, lymphedema (swelling), and stiffness and pain from scar tissue
• Sports injury
• Chronic pain, including fibromyalgia, low back or neck pain, sciatica nerve pain, joint pain
• Difficulty Walking or Decline in Mobility
• Balance and coordination issues
• Stroke or other medical life-altering event
• Neurological disorder, such as Parkinson’s Disease
• Developmental disability

During your first session, the therapist may conduct a complete assessment and work with you to develop a treatment plan based on your goals for improvement. Your treatments are designed to be provided individually by a physical therapist or physical therapy assistant.

The techniques used during treatment may include:

• Manual therapy (such as gentle massage and soft-tissue mobilization)
• Exercises to improve balance, coordination, range-of-motion, flexibility and strength
• Techniques such as heat, cold, ultrasound and electrical stimulation

Outpatient rehabilitation services at Alta Vista Regional Hospital are located near the main entrance to the hospital, to the right after entering the lobby.

*Physician order is required for therapy.