Understanding the Basics: What is Physical Therapy?

Written By Dr. Ben Stokes

Physical therapy, often abbreviated as PT, is a branch of healthcare aimed at promoting, restoring, and maintaining physical function and mobility. It encompasses a wide range of treatments and interventions designed to address injuries, disabilities, chronic conditions, and movement impairments. Physical therapists, also known as PTs, are licensed healthcare professionals who specialize in delivering personalized care to individuals of all ages.

Key Components of Physical Therapy.

  • Evaluation and Assessment: Physical therapists conduct comprehensive evaluations to assess a patient's movement, strength, flexibility, balance, and overall physical function. This process involves gathering medical history, performing physical examinations, and identifying specific impairments or limitations.

  • Treatment Planning: Based on the evaluation findings, physical therapists develop customized treatment plans tailored to the individual needs and goals of each patient. These plans may include a combination of therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, modalities (such as heat, cold, or electrical stimulation), education, and lifestyle modifications.

  • Rehabilitation and Recovery: Through targeted interventions and progressive exercises, physical therapy aims to facilitate healing, improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance functional abilities. Patients undergo supervised rehabilitation sessions aimed at restoring optimal movement patterns and maximizing independence in daily activities.

  • Prevention and Wellness: In addition to injury rehabilitation, physical therapy plays a crucial role in injury prevention and overall wellness. PTs provide education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic principles, and strategies to reduce the risk of future injuries. They also promote healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercise, proper nutrition, and stress management techniques.

Conditions Treated by Physical Therapy.

Physical therapy addresses a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:

  • Orthopedic injuries (such as sprains, strains, fractures, and joint replacements)

  • Musculoskeletal conditions (such as arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and nerve entrapments)

  • Sports-related injuries (such as ligament tears, muscle strains, and overuse injuries)

  • Chronic pain syndromes (such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, fibromyalgia)

  • Pre and post-operative rehabilitation for various surgical procedures

The Bottom Line

Physical therapy is a dynamic and multifaceted healthcare discipline that offers numerous benefits for individuals seeking to improve their physical function, mobility, and quality of life. Whether recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or striving for peak performance, physical therapy plays a vital role in promoting optimal health and wellness for people of all ages and abilities. If you're experiencing pain, mobility limitations, or movement-related challenges, consider consulting a physical therapist to explore how PT can help you achieve your goals and lead a healthier, more active life.

Dr. Ben Stokes

Hello, I’m Dr. Ben Stokes, a proud native Oregonian with a deep passion for helping others thrive. Born and raised in Hillsboro, I’ve embraced the Pacific Northwest lifestyle (think multiple rain jackets and no umbrellas). I graduated from Century High School in 2008 and then earned my BS in Kinesiology from Oregon State University, where my fascination with human movement and rehabilitation began.

Before pursuing a career in physical therapy, I worked as a specialized personal trainer focusing on rehabilitative exercises. A pivotal moment in my life came when my father was diagnosed with ALS, which was before I even thought about being a PT. Witnessing how dedicated rehabilitative care enabled him to participate in our cherished family dinners inspired me to pursue a career in physical therapy. With that driving force, I earned my doctorate at George Washington University and then returned to the Pacific Northwest, where my heart has always belonged.

My approach to physical therapy is rooted in learning from the best. I have trained under both chiropractors and experienced physical therapists, embracing diverse treatment methods to ensure the best outcomes for my patients. I’m dedicated to passing on the hope and healing I witnessed in my own family to as many people as possible.

Outside of the clinic, I enjoy solving puzzles, playing games, exploring hiking trails, and discovering local festivals and events. I’m thrilled to bring my expertise and genuine care back to our community at Tualatin Valley Physical Therapy, where your journey to lasting health and improved function begins.

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Your First Visit to Tualatin Valley Physical Therapy: What to Expect