By Iva Cannon


A physical therapist or physiotherapist is a health care worker who evaluates various parts of the human body that are not functioning well or are healing. This professional treats all kinds of patients, including the elderly, children and athletes. You can consult with a physiotherapist if you have sustained severe injuries after an accident, suffered a stroke, experiencing back pain or lost a leg or an arm.

You can also consult with a physical therapist if you suffer from chronic disorders that cause reduced range of motion or pain like osteoarthritis and arthritis. You can also see this professional if you are suffering from chronic pain or fatigue, balance problems, lower back pain and abdominal pressure that is causing incontinence. By consulting with a physical therapist San Francisco, CA dwellers can get the specific rehabilitation they need.

Physiotherapists employ various methods to reduce stiffness, reduce pain and increase strength as well as body motion. These methods include applying heat or ice pads to the affected body parts, electrical stimulation and ultrasound. In some cases, physiotherapists use conventional, hands on techniques to treat patients.

Physical therapists usually work in clinics, medical centers, the offices of doctors, nursing homes, schools or their own clinics. Some physiotherapists can also come to your home to treat you if you cannot travel. These professionals are knowledgeable about treating all kinds of musculoskeletal or neuromuscular dysfunctions.

When you schedule your first appointment with a physical therapist, he or she will first evaluate your injuries. The professional will consider if you are feeling pain and if you have problems moving certain parts of your body. The physiotherapist may also contact your doctor to get more information about your medical problem. He or she will also ask you many questions about the problem.

Some of the questions that your physiotherapist may ask are how the injury occurred, when the problem first began and if the condition has been getting worse. The professional may also seek to know if you have ever suffered from the problem before, if you have seen any other medical professional for care and if you have taken any medicines intended to treat the problem. A physiotherapist may also ask about your occupation, your work responsibilities and your favorite activities or interests.

A physiotherapist will also watch your physical condition as you attempt to move in different ways like reaching, bending or walking. He or she will try to determine how well you can move. The professional may use his or her hands to feel your muscles and note your moisture level and temperature.

A physiotherapist may also test for degree of sensation and muscle strength. If you have neck, back or neurological problems, the professional may perform special examinations. Examples of these examinations include specialized muscle studies and nerve response tests. After evaluating your condition, the professional will analyze the information and create a treatment plan.

A physiotherapist can also advise you to use therapeutic medical devices like crutches and canes, braces, artificial limbs and wheelchairs. For the best outcome, you should hire a competent physiotherapist in San Francisco. To find such a professional, you may ask your family doctor, relatives or friends to provide you with recommendations.




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