You know you hurt, you know you need help to get back to the physical fitness level you enjoyed before you got hurt. You did exactly what you should have done and sought advice from a trained sports physical therapists. Now you are being told you would be better served with a physical therapist that specializes in orthopedic care. Many people among the general public aren’t aware that there are distinct specialties a physical therapist can choose to pick. Orthopedic and sports physical therapy often go hand in hand. While a sports injury certainly can be related to muscle damage only, it definitely isn’t uncommon for an injury to be related to the bones either. Here is a deeper look at how orthopedic and sports physical therapy goes together to help you make the decision about which kind of professional you should see.

In order to practice both the medicine of orthopedic and sports physical therapy, the therapist has to have the general required education in physical therapy and have completed specialized work in orthopedics. In other words, they are required to have a more extensive education than other physical therapists. Some of the more in depth techniques and knowledge acquired pertain to special joint mobilization techniques and electrical stimulation procedures. They are licensed to diagnose, treat, and provide after care management for injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system like serious sports injuries, post op joints, and arthritis. These therapists are also able to provide assistance to amputees to increase their quality of life.

With orthopedic and sports physical therapy you can expect to find treatments like strength training, electrical stimulation, and hot/cold pack use as well as individualized exercise plans. These professionals are well educated in teaching patients the correct way to perform their exercises for safety and maximum results. In addition to the types of medical cases that benefit from orthopedic and sports physical therapy, you can add any specific problem relating to the diseases of the tendons, ligaments, and bones. The combination of specialties creates a well rounded professional who can improve the body function of a wide assortment of patients.

Try to not be alarmed if your doctor or another medical professional suggests seeking the help of an orthopedic and sports physical therapy professional. You can look forward to effective, knowledgeable care individualized for your specific special needs. This particular study of sports physical therapy ensures the most comprehensive care for patients with a variety of ailments and injuries. You can look forward to feeling much better with the exercises and therapies provided for your injury.

The field of orthopedic and sports physical therapy opens a new world of healing for people with an assortment of problems. The combination of the two disciplines ensures every aspect of the health problem is taken care of in a safe and effective manner.