Physical therapists at Altru work with patients to help them overcome disabilities
caused by accidents, illnesses or chronic conditions. With locations in
Grand Forks, East Grand Forks and other areas throughout the region, our
physical therapists offer acute care and rehabilitation services for patients
of all ages and diagnoses.
Read More: 12 Things You May Not Know a Physical Therapist Treats
Goals of Physical Therapy
Physical therapists use modalities, such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation,
as well as other interventions like manual therapy and exercise to work
with patients and treat a variety of medical conditions, illnesses and injuries.
A physical therapist may specialize in treating specific areas, such as
the back, neck, knee or shoulder. Some physical therapists focus on spinal
cord injuries, amputations or other conditions.
Physical therapy is designed to:
Improve balance, coordination and walking
Increase muscle strength, flexibility and endurance
Restore ability to safely complete daily living tasks
Restore or improve range of motion
Decrease pain
Decrease swelling
Correct deformities
Prevent injury
Physical Therapy Services
Physical therapists at Altru provide the following programs and services:
Amputee rehabilitation—If you need to relearn how to do daily tasks after limb loss or
learn how to use an artificial limb, physical therapy can help you adjust
to a new range of motion. Depending on the type of amputation and/or artificial
limb you receive, this may include gait training (learning to walk again)
or other activities.
Ankle and foot rehabilitation—This type of physical therapy may be recommended after surgery or
injury, or to combat arthritis or other joint disease. Ankle and foot
rehabilitation will likely include exercises to help improve or maintain
strength and flexibility.
Orthopedic rehabilitation—This form of therapy may be used after an
orthopedic surgery or injury.
Neuro rehabilitation—This form of therapy may be used to help patients recover from stroke,
traumatic brain injury or other brain disorders.
Lower extremity rehabilitation—This form of rehabilitation may be recommended after an illness
or injury that affects pain, function and range of motion of the leg.
Spine care—This form of physical therapy will help to strengthen the muscles
surrounding your spine, which can help alleviate back pain or prevent injury.
Upper extremity rehab (shoulder)—This form of therapy will help improve range of motion, function
and pain level in your shoulder.
Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM)—IASTM is a popular method of treating soft tissue dysfunctions and
injuries. This intervention is commonly known by the brand of the technique
and tool, such as Graston® technique or Astym® therapy.
Pediatric physical therapy—Altru’s physical therapy offers diagnostic and educational
services for children with genetic, neurological or orthopedic disorders.
Pelvic pain dysfunction and bladder control issues—This can be treated with the use of biofeedback, pelvic muscle strengthening
and control, or methods of pain relief including ultrasound.
Posture and body mechanics—This form of therapy can help you walk, stand, sit and move with
mindfulness, maintaining proper alignment and minimizing joint, bone or
muscle pain.
Physical therapy can take direct referrals from patients without a provider’s
order if the patient’s insurance company allows it. Our staff work
closely with referring and/or primary physicians regarding treatment plans,
goals and progress.
Evaluation
During your initial visit, your physical therapist will evaluate your condition.
This involves reviewing your health history, determining how you could
benefit from physical therapy, outlining treatment goals and developing
a treatment plan.
Progress
The quality and speed of your recovery depends largely on you. The time
and effort you invest in your therapy program will help you enjoy the
best possible outcome.
During each visit, your physical therapist may teach you how to perform
certain exercises or how to use equipment or devices for assistance, such
as canes or walkers. They may teach you about other methods of treatment
or management, and how to perform these methods for yourself at home.
Some interventions need to be performed by your therapist and only happen
at your session. What you and your therapist cover during your session
will vary depending on your needs and goals. Regardless of why you receive
physical therapy, the goal is to give you tools that you can use to manage
your concerns and help you lead the quality of life you desire.
Your physical therapist will maintain a careful record of your progress
and periodically re-evaluate your condition. You are encouraged to ask
questions and openly discuss problems.
