In general, a Physical Therapist provides services designed for preventing the onset and/or slowing the progression of conditions resulting from injury, disease, and other causes. Our physical therapists provide services to people of all ages who have functional conditions resulting from many conditions like:
- back and neck injuries
- sprains, strains, fractures
- arthritis
- high level stroke
- multiple sclerosis
- injuries related to work and sports
Springfield Clinic's Physical Therapy Department offers the following services:
Treatment of acute and chronic neck and back injuries: The focus of Physical Therapy is to restore range of motion and improve core stability to reduce incidence of pain and muscle spasm through improved awareness of body mechanics and ergonomics. Our department utilizes several approaches including manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, modalities and the use of the Swiss Ball and foam rollers, to improve lumbar stabilization and core stability.
Treatment of a wide range of orthopedic conditions including plantar fascitis, tennis elbow and impingement syndrome: The focus of therapy is to improve the patient’s biomechanics to reduce overuse injury with goal of return to prior level of function. Our department utilizes manual therapy skills to reduce myofascial tension, therapeutic exercise to restore musculoskeletal symmetry, and the use of modalities to reduce pain and inflammation.
Treatment of balance and falls: The goal with therapy is to improve the patient’s stability, center of gravity awareness and limits of stability to reduce incidences of falling and loss of balance. Our department utilizes several approaches including the Smart Balance Master, Swiss Balls and functional activities.
Custom shoe orthotics: Evaluation of the foot and ankle for custom rigid orthotics to improve symptoms and biomechanics of the lower extremity.
Treatment of neurological disorders: These areas include the treatment of higher level stroke care and Multiple Sclerosis patients. Physical Therapy also works closely with our team of neurosurgeons on treatment of post discectomy or spinal fusion patients.
ROM/strengthening following mastectomy: Patient education and instruction in lymphedema, range of motion and postural exercises including soft tissue mobilization to improve shoulder biomechanics and postural awareness following a mastectomy.
Fitting of supplies, including ankle, wrist, knee, and custom ACL brace: Our Physical Therapy department carries a wide variety of supplies to provide joint protection. These supplies can be provided to the patient with a physician’s prescription, without an appointment.
Treatment of urinary incontinence: The goal of therapy is to improve the patient’s awareness of proper bladder health, voiding intervals and improve pelvic floor muscle tone. Our Physical Therapy department utilizes Holister In- Care biofeedback technology, in conjunction with manual therapy skills and patient education.
Treatment of the pre-natal and post-natal patient: The goal of therapy is to improve postural awareness and lumbar stabilization with appropriate progression of a home program specifically designed for the pre or post natal patient.
Vestibular Program: Vestibular rehabilitation helps patients address their decrease in balance and stability by improving postural control, center of gravity and limits of stability combined with sensory integration. In addition the therapist is able to assess the need for canal repositioning techniques which may include the Epley maneuver to help resolve vertigo.
McConnel and Kinesio Taping: Physical Therapy utilizes these taping techniques to improve biomechanics of a joint to facilitate progression strengthening. Taping is also used in conjunction with therapy to inhibit muscle spasms which may be contributing to pain.
Pre & post surgical: Our Physical Therapy department encourages a patient to be seen prior to surgery to provide gait training using crutches, cane or walker. Physical Therapists are specially trained to progress range of motion and strength to restore you back to your prior level of function throughout your entire rehab program. Your therapist provides regular progress reports to your physician to improve patient outcomes and communication.