Key Concepts Regarding Physical Therapy Wilmington Residents May Find Worthwhile

By Harold Powell


In the course of work or play, a person may sustain some form of bone or soft tissue injury that requires physical therapy (physiotherapy) in order to restore function of the affected system. Common sporting activities that result in these kinds of injuries include rugby, football, athletics and extreme sports among others. Road traffic accidents are also well-known to cause serious injuries that may require long term rehabilitation. These are some of the essentials on physical therapy Wilmington residents may find beneficial.

The value of history taking, physical examination and investigations can never be underestimated in managing patients that require physiotherapy. Indeed, they go a long way in providing the correct diagnosis and creating a management plan for the patient. Taking history involves the doctor asking the patient certain questions including basic personal details as well as specific characteristics of their condition.

Physical examination works to assess the stability of the patient and how much damage has occurred. Investigations are also done to the severity of disease and its exact location in the body. Common investigations done include blood tests and radiographic imaging. Most common imaging techniques include x ray, CT scan and magnetic resonance imaging(MRI).

It is worth noting that physiotherapy goes beyond engaging the patient in physical exercises. As a matter of fact, it incorporates the use of devices to facilitate comfort and normal range of movement at joints in the long run. Examples of such devices include braces, traction kits, walking aids and corsets among others. The therapy also employs the use of cold compresses, heat massage, sound waves and radiation. In addition, it educates individuals on the best way to maintain physical fitness while at home or at work.

Just like any other field of medicine, physiotherapy has areas of specialization. There are about nine in total, with the most recent addition being oncology. Specialties that have existed for a while now include cardiovascular, respiratory, geriatric, electrophysiology and integumentary system.

Secretions tend to accumulate in the upper and lower respiratory tract in all humans. Naturally, these secretions are forced out through coughing. Very sick patients may not be able to achieve this. In such cases, the cough reflex is triggered through manual physical therapy of the chest area. Diseases such as cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD are just but a few examples of diseases requiring this intervention.

Physiotherapists also have a role to play in diseases affecting the skin, commonly burns and wounds. Specialists aim at minimizing infections and managing pain and swelling. The specialty entails irrigation of wounds, dressing, splinting and compression among other appropriate measures.

To conclude, it should be stated that physiotherapy is extremely helpful not just for patients with muscle, bone and joint issues but also for those in whom neurological, cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions have been diagnosed. The treatment incorporates physical exercises, manual manipulation and electrophysiological measures.




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