What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy is a health care specialty involved with evaluating, diagnosing, and treating disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system. The ultimate goal of physical therapy is to restore maximal functional independence to each individual patient.

Physical therapy is provided by physical therapists, who are licensed health care professionals, or by physical therapist assistants working under a therapist’s supervision. Physical therapists evaluate, diagnose, and manage the physical therapy treatment plan, customizing it to each individual’s needs.

What conditions do physical therapists treat?

Physical therapists are experts in "the science of healing and the art of caring." Physical therapists help people with orthopedic conditions such as low back pain or osteoarthritis; joint and soft tissue injuries such as sprains, fractures, and dislocations; neurologic conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, or Parkinson's disease; connective tissue injuries such as burns or wounds; workplace injuries including repetitive stress disorders; and sports injuries.

The following is a list of just some of the many conditions we treat here at CUMC Physical Therapy:

• Acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions
• Sports related injuries
• Spinal dysfunction
• Pre-operative and post-operative conditions
• Acute and chronic pain
• Work related injuries
• Neurological impairments including balance dysfunction

Special Services Offered:

We offer several special programs that address a wide range of conditions and/or disorders. These services include the following:

• Spine Program: A customized evaluation and treatment approach to address neck and back pain/dysfunction.
• Bariatric and Medical Weight Loss Program: A collaborative approach to weight loss with the Bariatric Surgical Weight Loss program and physical therapy for a customized exercise regimen.
• Running Program: A customized evaluation and treatment approach to address pain or injury for the runner.