Physical Therapy (PT) is a form of healthcare that addresses the musculoskeletal and/or neurological aspects of chronic pain problems. Physical Therapists assess and treat a multitude of medical conditions and injuries to improve each individual's function and quality of life. The therapists at Pain and Wellness work closely with other health care professionals to optimize each client's potential for recovery and outcome during the rehabilitation process.

A Physical Therapist will perform an extensive evaluation and then develop an individualized treatment plan and goals based on the impairments and functional limitations presented during the assessment.

Physical Therapy treatment may include:

• Manual Therapy: Manual therapy techniques are specialized hands-on skills consisting of joint mobilization and soft tissue techniques designed to decrease pain, restore movement and improve function.
  
• Modalities: Physical Therapists may use different modalities for pain relief, muscle spasm, inflammation, swelling, increasing movement and strength. Examples of modalities include Hot/Cold Intervention, Traction, Ultrasound, Electrical Stimulation and TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation).
  
• Exercise: Exercise is a core component of the treatment plan. A program may consist of stabilization, strengthening, flexibility and aerobic conditioning. The exercise's are progressed and customized to each individual's condition and the specific goals for recovery.
  
• Education: All patients are provided education regarding their condition as well as important information and strategies to assist in self-management and prevention of further injury.
  
• Postural Awareness: Patient will be educated on correct sitting/standing posture, ergonomics, bending and lifting techniques.
  
• Functional Training: Patient will be instructed in functional training for work-related issues, home activities (ADL's) and recreational interests.

At each visit we discuss status, review strategies, work on unresolved problems and progress the treatment plan accordingly. A program that is active in nature and geared toward instructing the patient in self care techniques and injury prevention are key ingredients in returning a person to an active and healthy lifestyle.