Physical therapy is one form of treatment we use in the wake of an accident to help injured patients regain their mobility and full bodily functions. Because the body is such a complex system, a one-size-fits-all approach to physical therapy just won’t cut it. Today, we take a look at some different sub-specialties of physical therapy and how these therapists can help you recover after a car accident.
Neurological Physical Therapist
As the name implies, a neurological physical therapist treats conditions affecting the brain and central nervous system. Neurological therapy is very important after a car accident because there is a limited amount of time during which a person’s brain cells and spinal cord retain their ability to learn how to control bodily functions after severe accidents. Neurological physical therapy is one of the more complex types of physical therapy, but when performed correctly, they can help a person regain function that was inhibited due to an auto accident.
Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Orthopedic physical therapy is one of the more common types of therapy after a car accident. Occupational therapists, also known as OTs, focus on treating conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. They help patients recover from some common auto accident conditions, like whiplash, rotator cuff tears, knee damage and hand injuries. They also work to ensure patients have proper body order, from walking gait to back posture.
Cardiovascular Physical Therapy
Despite the name, a cardiovascular physical therapist doesn’t just work to rehab a person’s heart. A CPT does do some work with a patient’s heart, but they also work to improve a person’s lung quality after an accident. If a person suffers a lung or a rib injury during a car accident, they may seek the assistance of a CPT to help with their rehab.
Massage Therapist
Although not the same as a physical therapist, a massage therapist helps patients in a similar way by treating muscle and soft tissue injuries after a car accident. Many patients enjoy the experience of massage therapy because they believe it allows them to get better in tune with their body and actually understand which pressure points are causing pain.
For more information about physical therapy and the specialties we offer, contact us at our Edina or Minneapolis clinics today!