Physical therapy is instrumental in increasing strength and mobility through a combination of targeted exercises, manual therapy techniques, and education.
Here are just some ways how physical therapy helps improve strength and mobility:
- Functional Training: Physical therapy incorporates functional exercises that mimic real-life movements and activities. By practicing functional tasks relevant to daily activities, work, or sports, patients can improve their mobility and functional capacity in meaningful ways.
- Manual Therapy: Physical therapists may use hands-on techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue mobilization, and myofascial release to address joint stiffness, muscle tightness, and tissue restrictions. Manual therapy helps improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and optimize movement patterns.
- Modalities: Physical therapists may use modalities such as heat, ice, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, or laser therapy to complement exercise and manual therapy interventions. These modalities can help reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle spasm, facilitating improved mobility and participation in therapy exercises.
