Physical Therapy Specialties: What to Expect from Each One

There are many different types of physical therapy specialties. Each one has a unique focus and approach to helping patients recover from injuries or illnesses. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common physical therapy specialties. We will also outline what each specialty entails and how it can help you or a loved one recover from an injury or illness.

Pediatrics

Pediatrics is a physical therapy specialty that focuses on treating children. It is designed for those who are still growing and developing, so the therapist must have knowledge of how the body changes as it grows. Pediatric therapists use a variety of techniques to help their young patients recover from injuries or illnesses. These techniques may include exercises, stretches, massage, and aquatic therapy.

Geriatrics

Geriatrics is a physical therapy specialty that focuses on treating elderly patients. It helps patients who are typically dealing with age-related conditions such as arthritis, dementia, and cardiovascular issues. Geriatric therapists use a variety of techniques to help their elderly patients recover from injuries or illnesses. These techniques may include exercises, stretches, massage, and aquatic therapy.

Sports Medicine

Sports medicine is a physical therapy specialty that focuses on treating athletes. It entails working with patients who are recovering from sports-related injuries or illnesses. Sports medicine therapists use a variety of techniques to help their patients recover. These techniques may include exercises, stretches, massage, and electrical stimulation.

Orthopedics

Orthopedics is a physical therapy specialty that focuses on treating musculoskeletal injuries or illnesses. It involves working with patients who have conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and torn ligaments. Orthopedic therapists use a variety of techniques to help their patients recover from injuries or illnesses. These techniques may include exercises, stretches, massage, and ultrasound.

Women’s Health

Women’s health is a physical therapy specialty that focuses on treating conditions that are unique to women. It involves working with patients who have conditions such as pelvic floor dysfunction, incontinence, and post-pregnancy rehabilitation. Women’s health therapists use a variety of techniques to help their patients recover from injuries or illnesses. These techniques may include exercises, stretches, massage, and electrical stimulation.

Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation is a physical therapy specialty that focuses on treating conditions that affect the heart and lungs. It involves working with patients who have conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), coronary artery disease, and heart failure. Cardiovascular and pulmonary therapists use a variety of techniques to help their patients recover from injuries or illnesses. These techniques may include exercises, stretches, massage, and respiratory therapy.

Neurology

Neurology is a physical therapy practice that focuses on treating conditions that impact the nervous system. It involves working with patients who have conditions such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease. Neurological physical therapists use a variety of techniques to help their patients recover from injuries or illnesses. These techniques may include exercises, stretches, massage, and electrical stimulation.

Each physical therapy specialty has its own unique focus and approach to helping patients recover from injuries or illnesses. If you are looking for specialized treatment for a specific condition, consult with a physical therapist to see if they offer the specialty you need.