Orthopedic physical therapists treat patients recovering from orthopedic surgery or those with disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal systems. Muscles, bones, tendons and ligaments make up the musculoskeletal system. Rehabilitation may include electrical stimulation and strength training for people with arthritis, amputations or sports injuries.

Cardiovascular and Pulmonary

Cardiovascular and Pulmonary physical therapists treat patients affected by heart attack, stroke or cardiac or pulmonary surgery. One of the central focuses of this type of physical therapy is to increase functional independence.

Neurological

Neurological physical therapy is a necessity for patients who have experienced trauma to the spinal cord or brain. Without it, patients lose functionality which can be detrimental to a person’s overall health and well-being. Neurological physical therapists also assist people with neurological disorders and diseases like ALS, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s.

Geriatric

Pediatric therapy involves the treatment of infants, children and adolescents with congenital and developmental disorders and other diseases. Special emphasis is placed on improving motor skills, balance, strength and cognitive skills. Children with cerebral palsy and spina bifida are often treated by pediatric physical therapists.

The goal of physical therapy is to develop, nurture or restore movement lost as a result of an illness, injury or disease. Many believe that physical therapy benefits the body, but the treatment has an emotional and mental effect on a person’s overall well being.  Physical therapy is a comprised of many subspecialties however some of the more common specialties are geriatric, pediatric, cardiopulmonary, neurological, orthopedic and occupational.