Treating orthopedic pain with physical therapy

If you experience orthopedic pain, you are not alone. Approximately 1.71 billion people worldwide have musculoskeletal conditions, the leading cause of disability worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.

Physical therapy is a key part of orthopedic care, offering a comprehensive approach to address musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Physical therapists design personalized treatment plans for patients, incorporating exercises and techniques to build strength and reduce pain, and providing patient education. They monitor patients’ progress, helping them recover from orthopedic issues, regain functionality and enhance their quality of life.

While pain commonly occurs after an accident or surgery, it can also arise unexpectedly, starting as a dull ache, sharp pain or stiffness that limits a person’s ability to move.

Orthopedic pain takes many forms, presenting in the bones, muscles, joints, tendons or ligaments. It can be the result of fractures, joint replacements, sprains, strains, poor posture, overuse or repetitive movements.

In addition to orthopedic pain, physical therapists also treat other conditions, including:

Amputation
Arthritis
Balance disorders
Cancer
Concussions
Continence
Lymphedema
Neurologic disorders
Pregnancy-related pain
Stroke

Physical therapists work with patients of all ages, from children to older adults. They use exercises to strengthen patients’ muscles and improve flexibility and range of motion. Soft tissue and joint mobilization, and other manual therapies may be used to help relieve pain and enhance healing. Physical therapists also provide education on proper body mechanics, posture and preventing future injuries.

Chronic pain is not normal or a sign of aging. The human body compensates for chronic pain in different ways. If you alter your movement patterns to compensate, you can cause pain in other areas. The longer pain-related issues linger, the longer it will take to relieve them. Seek treatment if you experience pain that is getting worse or not improving.

Forgoing timely treatment can keep you from doing the things you love and affect your mental and emotional well-being. It can also lead to costly treatments, time off work, injections or surgeries. Physical therapists teach patients modified movements to help them heal and safely return to their jobs and recreational activities.

If you are experiencing orthopedic pain, you can directly schedule care with a physical therapist. A provider’s referral is not necessary for general orthopedic issues, but you must have a primary provider in the event additional care is needed. Physical therapists share their treatment plans and communicate any issues or concerns directly with patients’ providers to ensure care is well coordinated. A primary care provider may also recommend additional care, beyond the scope of a physical therapist.

Heike Holzapfel, PT, is a physical therapist at the ProHealth Medical Group clinic in Hartland. She works with patients to create customized care plans to help reach their goals and improve their quality of life.