Our body mechanics go through many changes as we age and grow. The way we function at 25 is different from the way we function at 50, and the way we function at 50 is different from the way we function at 80. Injuries, ailments, and general “wear and tear” take quite the toll on the human body as it goes through life. At Joint Effort Physical Therapy, we offer geriatric physical therapy in order to assess and treat the discomfort that many seniors tend to feel, due to the physical conditions that come with age. To learn more about how you or a loved one may benefit from geriatric physical therapy, contact our Hot Springs, AR physical therapy office today.
What exactly is geriatric physical therapy?
Geriatric physical therapy has been recognized as a specialty focus within the physical therapy field since 1989. It generally focuses on older adults, aged approximately between 65-90, although it can be used to address any age-related conditions experienced by an adult. It acts as an umbrella term, as it can be used to describe treatment for a broad range of issues that people tend to face as they age. Some common issues treated through geriatric physical therapy include:
- Osteoporosis
- Arthritis
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Cancer
- Joint replacement
- Balance and gait disorders
- Neurological disorders
- Incontinence
How does geriatric physical therapy help?
Geriatric physical therapy is generally comprised of three main categories: manual therapy, exercise, and education.
Manual therapy:
It is also known as “hands-on treatment,” which is performed in order to decrease a patient’s pain, restore their mobility, and increase their circulation. Common forms of manual therapy include massage and joint/muscle manipulation.
Exercise:
It is a crucial part of any geriatric treatment plan. One of our highly-trained Hot Springs, AR physical therapists will prescribe targeted exercises for each patient’s specific needs, in order to help them improve their muscle strength, coordination, flexibility, balance, and physical endurance. Exercise is also helpful in decreasing a patient’s risk of falling increasing their overall mobility. Common geriatric exercises include walking, stretching, light weight lifting, and aquatic therapy.
Education:
It is important in maintaining the progress made during treatments. Our physical therapists will provide patients with helpful tips and techniques for safely performing daily tasks, using assistive devices, and preventing further injuries from occurring.
Contact Joint Effort Physical Therapy
At Joint Effort Physical Therapy, we want to help patients reclaim their independence and improve their overall quality of life. If you believe you or a loved one could benefit from geriatric physical therapy treatments, give us a call today! We’ll be more than happy to schedule a consultation and get you started on the path toward improved health and wellness.