Physical therapy is a medical specialty that helps patients
who have musculoskeletal and neurological disorders.
It produces therapeutic effects through physical and
mechanical processes, patient education, and rehabilitation
programs. Before prescribing physical therapy, the physician
must assess a patient's joint mobility, muscle strength,
gait, and posture. Depending on the patient's needs, the
physician may decide to include cryotherapy, thermotherapy,
or hydrotherapy in the physical therapy program. The
physician or physical therapist may also recommend exercise
therapy, massage, or traction. If the patient has difficulty
with ambulation, the physical therapist may indicate
a mobility aid such as a cane, a walker, crutches, or a
wheelchair. As a medical assistant, you may be asked to help a patient
with cryotherapy or thermotherapy, range-of-motion
(ROM) exercises, hydrotherapy, and other treatments. You
may also need to teach a patient how to use mobility aids.
Working directly with patients to help alleviate their pain
and improve their mobility will reward you with immediate
and long-term satisfaction. |