Patients of all ages can benefit from physical therapy

The work of a physical therapist circles around enhancing quality of life and movement of appendages and additional body parts, according to the Journal-Standard.

A physical therapist also works to help promote, prevent, diagnose, treat and rehabilitate clients within the realms of physical, psychological, emotional and social well being. The first task is to assess the areas that need recuperation, which is followed by education and treatment that enhance the health and operations of the region in point.

Another responsibility of the physical therapist is to devise a program that uses exercise and stretching, both of which do their part to drive physical fitness and prevent injuries.

Patients of all ages are treatable by physical therapists, ranging from newborns to the elderly whose issues might include moving and performing day-to-day activities. The assistance of a physical therapist is especially valuable following a surgical procedure.

Each October marks the observation of National Physical Therapy Month, during which industry representatives work to shine a spotlight on the vital role fulfilled by physical therapists and their assistants. The theme of this year’s observance is sports injuries.