Their patients include accident victims and disabled individuals with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, nerve injuries, burns, amputations, head injuries, fractures, low back pain, arthritis, and heart disease. These plans, which may be based on physician's orders, describe the treatments to be provided, their purpose, and their anticipated outcomes. As treatment continues, they document progress, conduct periodic re-evaluations, and modify treatments, if necessary.
Treatment often includes exercise for patients who have been immobilized and lack flexibility.
Using a technique known as passive exercise, therapists increase the patient's flexibility by stretching and manipulating stiff joints and unused muscles. Later in the treatment, they encourage patients to use their own muscles to further increase flexibility and range of motion before finally advancing to weights and other exercises to improve strength, balance, coordination, and endurance. Physical therapists also use electricity, heat, cold, or ultrasound to relieve pain or improve the condition of muscles or related tissues or to reduce swelling. They may use traction or deep-tissue massage to relieve pain and restore function. Physical therapists document evaluations, daily progress, medical team conferences, and reports to referring practitioners and insurance companies.