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Physical & Occupational Therapy Q&A

What are physical therapy and occupational therapy?

Physical therapy and occupational therapy are forms of rehabilitative care. Both therapies use various exercises, modalities, and treatments to improve function, quality of life, and overall health and wellness.

However, physical therapy and occupational therapy have different focuses.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy helps you to improve your movement and mobility. Your physical therapist develops a personalized exercise program aimed at getting your body back in motion. 

Occupational therapy

Occupational therapy makes it easier for you to manage daily tasks. Your therapy may include relearning the skills you need to return to work or maintain your independence at home.

What health conditions benefit from physical therapy and occupational therapy?

The team at 360 Orthopedics includes experienced physical and occupational therapists to assist in the recovery and rehabilitation of a wide range of orthopedic injuries and conditions. A few examples include:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Fractures
  • Sprains
  • Joint instability
  • Dislocations
  • Tendinitis
  • Crush injuries
  • Ligament and tendon injuries
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Joint replacement

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, suffering from a chronic pain condition, or need help regaining your independence, you may benefit from physical or occupational therapy at 360 Orthopedics.

What types of treatments will I receive during physical therapy?

The licensed physical therapists at 360 Orthopedics have extensive training in numerous active and passive modalities. When they create your treatment plan, they combine different techniques to reach your rehabilitation goals.

These are a few examples of common physical therapy modalities:

  • Structured exercise
  • Strength training
  • Balance training
  • Manual therapy
  • Gait training
  • Stabilization exercises
  • Endurance training
  • Flexibility and stretching exercises
  • Joint mobilization
  • Electrotherapy
  • Therapeutic ultrasound
  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

At 360 Orthopedics, you can also receive aquatic therapy in their state-of-the-art pool. Aquatic therapy allows you to exercise and restore strength with less stress and joint pressure. Water offers enough resistance to gently strengthen your muscles, while its buoyancy supports your body weight and helps you gently improve your range of motion.

What treatments will I receive during occupational therapy?

Occupational therapists use a variety of techniques and therapies to support your activities of daily living. Your therapy may include manual techniques, custom-fabricated splinting, and structured exercises.

Your occupational therapist may also recommend assistive devices or durable medical equipment (DME) to improve your functioning and support your recovery. 

The occupational therapists at 360 Orthopedics also offer hand therapy, which is a specialized type of occupational therapy that requires advanced training.

To schedule your physical or occupational therapy, call 360 Orthopedics or use the online booking feature today.