Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a conservative treatment method that addresses pain relief, healing, and restoration of strength and function. Our therapists also provide training in ergonomics, proper body mechanics, pelvic stabilization, and joint protection principles to prevent additional injury in the future.
At Rehab Orthopedic Medicine we use the sports medicine approach, utilizing the most modern equipment available today. Studies have shown that 80 percent of back/neck pain is the result of muscular, not spinal, problems. Injury and overexertion often result in damage to the soft tissue (muscles, tendons and ligaments) that move and support our spine. A weak, overburdened muscle will often go into spasms, upsetting the balance of the complex network of neck/back muscles that work together to complete even simple daily activities. Muscles that remain weak for an extended amount of time lose the ability to function properly, causing other muscles to compensate for this imbalance. The result can be a chronic pain problem.
The term REHABILITATION means to "become able to function again." This restoration of functional capabilities is at the heart of our treatment programs. Our highly trained physical therapy team will provide you with an individualized treatment plan which may include the following therapeutic options:
- State-of-the-Art Med-X Rehabilitative Machines for the cervical spine and lumbar spine to help heal and condition your body against further injury. Med-X functional testing is used to specifically isolate the injured or weakened muscles of the spine. Our Med-X rehabilitative equipment is then used to stabilize and anchor the body in a position that will force the weakened muscle to perform with directed movement equipment. Throughout the rehab process, changes in muscle strength are monitored to objectively measure the degree of improvement and evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment program. Strengthening of the weakened muscles of the spine will result in decreased pain, increased range of motion, and improved functioning.
Manual Therapy to provide sliding mobilization of joints and sore muscles.- Special Supervised Exercises to rebuild and strengthen weakened muscles of the neck, back, knees, ankles, shoulders, and hips.
- Back to School for education in proper body mechanics for recovery and prevention of re-injury.
- Interferential Stimulation to reduce spasms and swelling from muscle and joint injuries and relieve pain.
- Ultrasound for deep heat and micro-massage of soft tissue injuries. Ultrasound treatments are used to relieve tight painful muscles, reduce stiffness, and promote flexibility.
- Diathermy for deep heat of soft tissue injuries.
Intersegmental Traction to relieve back pain by stretching and mobilizing the spine. A home traction unit may also be recommended.- Electronic Muscle Stimulation to relieve pain by increasing circulation and decreasing spasm.
- Post-Surgical Rehabilitation and Post-Knee Arthroscopy Protocols to optimize the results of surgery and promote full return to functional status.
- Gait Training
- Therapeutic Home Exercise Programs tailored to your specific needs to promote decreased pain, decreased stiffness, and improved range of motion.
At every visit, you will work with a highly trained member of our physical therapy team to help you achieve optimum results following injury or surgery.
Dana Davis, MPT, MTT
Dana is the Director of Physical Therapy and treating physical therapist with Rehab Orthopedic Medicine. She received a Master's of Physical Therapy from the Institute of Physical Therapy at St. Augustine, Florida.
Her professional strengths include manual therapy, sports orthopedics, back and neck dysfunction, wound care, and management.
Dana's professional experience includes patient treatment in different settings such as rehabilitation facilities, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and in nursing.