Physical therapy aims to help people recover from an injury, illness, or surgery by improving their range of motion and strength. Physical therapists focus on restoring optimal function in patients with chronic pain, limited mobility due to arthritis or muscle weakness, musculoskeletal deformity, cardiovascular disease, or other disabling conditions. These professionals use various techniques, including stretches and therapeutic exercises, to improve flexibility and strength. If you have a condition that you think physical therapy may help improve, you should consult with a doctor of physical therapy in Houston. Here are some common conditions treated through physical therapy.
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Pelvic Pain
People who have pain in the area around the pelvis, lower back, or abdomen may be diagnosed with pelvic pain. If you have had previous surgery due to uterine prolapse, bladder prolapse, or another condition, you may also suffer pelvic pain. Physical therapy for pelvic floor dysfunction is beneficial because it can relieve symptoms of urinary urgency, pelvic pain, constipation, and sexual dysfunction. Physical therapists in Houston will work with you to determine the source of your pelvic pain and develop a treatment plan to reduce your symptoms.
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Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common conditions treated through physical therapy. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, about 80 percent of people will suffer from back pain at some point in their life. If you are suffering from back pain, you may benefit from physical therapy sessions that focus on mobilizing stiff joints, stretching tight muscles, and promoting body awareness. Your physical therapist in Houston will likely use various unique techniques to ensure that your back pain does not become chronic.
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Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common type of arthritis that affects the joints. If you have osteoarthritis, you may notice symptoms in your hips, knees, or back. Physical therapy can help people with this condition because it encourages safe exercise to increase their range of motion and decrease pain. A physical therapist will help provide advice on keeping your joints strong and stable to reduce the risk of injury. If you have osteoarthritis in a joint, physical therapy can effectively help manage your symptoms.
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects many people at some point in their life. This condition is also commonly associated with repetitive strain injuries. If you have carpal tunnel syndrome and work in an industry involving repetitive motions and heavy lifting, physical therapy may benefit your recovery. Your physical therapist will teach you exercises to help improve your hand strength and reduce stress on the median nerve.
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Spine Injury
Spine injuries are prevalent, but they can also be severe. If you have experienced pain or numbness in any area of your body after a fall or any other accident involving your spine, you should consult with a doctor immediately. A physical therapist may still benefit your recovery because they can show you how to strengthen muscles around your spine and improve posture.
In summary, physical therapists in Houston use various techniques to help people recover from injury, illness, and surgery. If you think physical therapy may benefit you, consult with a doctor of physical therapy before beginning your treatment. A physical therapist can provide an accurate diagnosis of your condition and give you specific recommendations for exercises that will help improve your symptoms.
