In looking for the services of a physical therapist Sterling VA residents should be well conversant with what their job entails. They provide services that help in restoration of function, improvement of mobility, pain relief and prevention of permanent physical disability in individuals suffering from various injuries or disease. They help in promotion and maintenance of overall fitness and health. Among their patients are accident victims and people that have disabling conditions like arthritis, heart disease and fractures.

The first step is to examine the medical history of their patients. They then measure the strength, posture, motor function and range of motion of the patient. It is after that they develop treatment strategies and the outcome that is expected. By coming up with a treatment strategy, the patients can look forward to effective care and recovery.

One of the options of treatment is exercise. This is especially applicable for those that have lost ability to move and lack flexibility, endurance or strength. They encourage their patients to use their muscles for purposes of enhancing their range of motion and flexibility. Exercises that are more advanced lay focus on improvement of strength, coordination and balance. This is aimed at improving functioning of the individual at home and at work.

In order that pain and swelling may be reduced, there is the use of electrical stimulation, hot packs, ultrasound and cold compresses. There is also need to improve flexibility and circulation, which is done using traction and deep-tissue massage. The patients are also educated on how to use crutches and prostheses, plus how to go about their home exercises. Progress of patients is noted through periodic examinations and check-ups.

Physical therapists work hand in hand with numerous other professionals. Some of these include audiologists, educators, nurses and dentists. There are professionals in this field that treat various ailments and injuries, while others specialize in specific fields. The fields of specialization include physical therapy, neurology and pediatrics.

Their places of practice are clinics, hospitals and private offices. The work that physical therapists do is very demanding because they are required to at most times stoop, kneel, crouch and stand for long periods of time. Further, the equipment that they deal with is heavy and they will once in a while be required to lift it. Full-time therapists have working hours in the range of 40 every week. There are also those that work during weekends, evenings or even round the clock.

As concerns training, they are required to possess a Masters degree and obtain a license before they are able to practice. For one to apply for licensure, they must have graduated from institutions that are accredited. The programs begin with basic courses in sciences like chemistry, physics and biology. A license is obtained after one passes a national exam for physical therapists. Some states would give an extra exam.

In consideration of the services of a physical therapist Sterling VA residents can get their preferred professionals in a number of ways. Perhaps the most used is the internet because most therapists advertise their services online. In addition, there is the use of other modes of advertisement like television and newspapers.