Name of Practice Name of Practice

Therapies: Physical Therapy

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical Therapy is generally defined as the evaluation and treatment of musculoskeletal and related impairments such as decreased range of motion or strength, pain, abnormal gait patterns, balance and mobility deficits, and more.

Therapy includes multiple components including but not limited to:

  • Patient education - provides you with relevant practical and useful information regarding your situation and emphasizes strategies for improving your function and preventing re-injury.
  • Exercise - you will receive specfic exercises designed to manage your symptoms and progress you towards your rehabilitation goals including increased range of motion and strength. Exercises are generally performed both at home and in the clinic and may not necessarily be the same.
  • Manual therapy - includes joint and soft tissue mobilization techniques. These techniques may be direct or indirect and are used to increase range of motion and to decrease muscle and soft tissue tension.
  • Modalities - includes the use of heat, cold, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, iontophoresis, and other means to promote healing, neuromuscular reeducation, strength, tissue pliability, or relaxation.

Who are Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants?

Your Physical Therapist (PT, MSPT, DPT) is a State of Colorado licensed professional with specialized education in physical medicine with either a bachelors, masters, or doctoral degree from an accredited university. Therapists are encouraged to maintain and up date their education and skills by attending continuing education courses annually.

Your Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is a professional working under the supervision of your Physical Therapist and is responsible for carrying out your plan of care as organized by your therapist. PTAs, like PTs, have specialized education and continuing education emphasizing patient education, manual therapy skills, exercise, and the use of modalities.

Where can I receive Physical Therapy Services?

Physical Therapy services are offered at all HealthONE Rehabilitation Centers.

* More formal definitions and descriptions of Physical Therapy, Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, and methods used may be found at the State of Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies web site.