Physical therapists are health care providers who work with injured patients to help them become mobile again. They usually earn a master's degree in physical therapy and work in hospitals and physical therapy clinics. Physical therapists provide support and retraining for people with permanent and temporary disabilities and those recovering from surgery and heart attacks.
Exercise
Physical therapists use exercise to treat mobility and flexibility problems. They teach patients continue with an exercise program at home.
Tools
Tools of the trade include mobility balls, weights, stationary bikes and treadmills. Physical therapists help patients regain endurance and strength with pulleys and elastic bands.
Tests
Physical therapists rely on the progress reports and monitoring provided by their patients' therapy treatments.
Electricity
Electric stimulation is used on stagnant muscles in patients who have had an accident or muscle injury.
Massage
Most physical therapists are proficient in deep tissue massage to improve circulation.
Teaching
In addition to teaching patients rehabilitative exercises, physical therapists instruct patients in the use of assistive devices such as crutches, walkers and prostheses.
Tags: Physical therapists, physical therapy