PHYSICAL THERAPY
The physical therapist assesses the patient’s functional capabilities and establishes a rehabilitative plan with realistic goals. To reach the goals, the physical therapist, in consultation with the physician, works with patients and families to establish home exercise programs to improve strength, range of motion, endurance, gait training and mobility. The physical therapist may also use modalities such as massage, heat and water or ultrasound to restore function, maximize performance or alleviate pain. The therapist evaluates the home environment for architectural barriers which may interfere with the patient’s progress or safety. Frequently, a physician will request that a physical therapist visit a patient at home prior to a scheduled surgery. This gives the family an opportunity to understand how to adapt the home environment so that the individual can most safely and comfortably recover at home.