Orthopedic physical therapy is a specialized branch of physical therapy that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints. Orthopedic physical therapy can be life-changing for people who have undergone surgery, suffered an injury, or are recovering from an illness.

A skilled physical therapist can help you get back on track with your daily activities by integrating all your bodily systems, especially your neurological and cardiovascular systems, with your musculoskeletal system.

Orthopedic physical therapy can be provided in outpatient clinics, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, sports facilities, and even in your home. The entry-level degree for a physical therapist these days is a clinical doctorate. So when you work with a physical therapist, you’re working with a doctor of physical therapy, who has completed three years of graduate school studies.

Orthopedic physical therapy can be a primary or complementary treatment option for the following types of musculoskeletal conditions:

– Arthritis

– Bursitis

– Cancer

– Frozen shoulder

– Knee instability

– Joint pain

– Limited range of motion

– Lower back pain

– Lyme disease

– Lymphedema

– Muscular dystrophy

– Parkinson’s disease

– Plantar fasciitis

– Scoliosis

– Spinal stenosis

– Stroke

Some physical therapists specialize in treating specific patient populations. For example, a sports physical therapist can help athletes move safely to prevent injuries and recover from sports-related injuries. A physical therapist who works primarily with older adults can help their patients improve their balance to prevent falls and recover from knee or hip replacement surgery, or maintain their strength and mobility as they age. Other physical therapists specialize in helping people recover from conditions like cancer or low back pain, or the effects of pregnancy and childbirth.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that focuses on helping people recover from injuries, illnesses, or disabilities through physical methods such as exercise, massage, and heat treatment. Physiotherapy is also known as physical therapy in some countries.

Physiotherapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including orthopedic conditions. In the area of orthopedic physiotherapy, it is used to reduce pain and normalize movement. It complements other physiotherapy treatments such as taping for joint support/alignment, which eases pain and facilitates normal movement.

Physiotherapy treatments of orthopedic conditions can include manual therapy: This is a carefully graded system of moving the joints to reduce pain and restore normal mobility of the joints. It includes mobilization, manipulation, and other related techniques.

Conclusion

Orthopedic physical therapy and physiotherapy are two healthcare professions that focus on helping people recover from injuries, illnesses, or disabilities through physical methods. Orthopedic physical therapy specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, while physiotherapy focuses on helping people recover from injuries, illnesses, or disabilities through physical methods such as exercise, massage, and heat treatment. Both professions can be life-changing for people who have undergone surgery, suffered an injury, or are recovering from an illness. If you are experiencing any musculoskeletal issues, it is recommended that you consult a physical therapist or physiotherapist to determine the best course of treatment for your condition.