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Physical Therapy

Physical therapy focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of musculoskeletal conditions to relieve chronic pain and other symptoms. It is a non-invasive, drug-free approach that can reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent further injury, on its own or alongside other treatment and after surgery.

What To Expect From Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is often used to treat, or supplement treatment for, a wide range of spine and orthopedic problems, and it is a common part of recovery after surgery. One of its main goals is to reduce pain and inflammation using techniques such as stretching, strengthening, and manual therapy.
 
Therapists may use mobilization to improve the movement of a joint or muscle, and heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain. They also improve strength and flexibility through an individualized exercise plan tailored to your needs and goals.

Conditions Physical Therapy Treats

Physical therapy can be effective for a wide range of spine and orthopedic problems, including:

Back painReduces pain and strengthens the muscles that support the spine. Neck painImproves strength and flexibility of the neck muscles. OsteoarthritisStrengthens the muscles that support arthritic joints. SciaticaRelieves pressure on irritated nerves. Sports injuriesTendinitis, bursitis, and sprains. Knee painRehabilitation for knee conditions and after surgery.
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Patient Education And Mobility Support

Physical therapists provide education on proper posture, body mechanics, and ergonomics, so the benefits continue after your sessions end.
 
They may also teach you how to use assistive devices, such as canes and walkers, to move around safely and comfortably.
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How Physical Therapy Works

A typical course of physical therapy:

  1. 1

    Evaluation

    Your therapist assesses strength, flexibility, posture, and movement.

  2. 2

    Pain relief

    Manual therapy and modalities such as heat, cold, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation reduce pain and inflammation.

  3. 3

    Strength and flexibility

    Stretching, strengthening, and aerobic exercise build support for the spine and joints.

  4. 4

    Education

    Posture, body mechanics, and ergonomics to protect your progress.

  5. 5

    Home program

    An individualized plan to continue on your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does physical therapy treat?

Physical therapy treats a wide range of spine and orthopedic problems, including back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, sprains, and recovery after surgery.

What happens during a physical therapy session?

Sessions may include stretching, strengthening, and aerobic exercise, manual therapy such as mobilization, and pain-relieving methods such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation.

Is physical therapy used after surgery?

Yes. Physical therapy is common after surgery to help the treated area return to normal strength, flexibility, and function.

Is physical therapy drug-free?

Yes. Physical therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free approach that can relieve pain, improve mobility, and prevent further injury.

How long does physical therapy take?

It depends on the condition and goals. Many patients attend sessions over several weeks and continue a home exercise program afterward.

Will I have exercises to do at home?

Usually. Physical therapists develop an individualized exercise plan tailored to your needs and goals, including exercises to continue at home.

Can physical therapy help me avoid surgery?

For many spine and joint conditions, physical therapy relieves symptoms enough that surgery is not needed, especially when combined with other conservative care.

How do I start physical therapy?

Schedule an evaluation so we can recommend a plan for your condition. Call (321) 499-4646.

Benefits Of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help you:

  • Reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Improve mobility and range of motion.
  • Build strength and flexibility.
  • Prevent further injury with better mechanics.
  • Recover after surgery and return to normal function.
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Related Treatments

Non-Surgical Treatments

Neck, back, and joint pain are some of the most prevalent and often debilitating conditions we see patients for. Thanks to exciting new developments in the field of medicine, we've been able to add many minimally invasive techniques and non-surgical techniques to our treatment repertoire. These methods focus on alleviating pain and improving quality of life without resorting to surgical interventions.

Bracing

Neck and back braces can be used for a number of purposes. For example, patients who have undergone a spinal fusion or other type of spine surgery may be required to wear a neck or back brace during the postoperative recovery process to help with recovery. There are several types of braces for the neck or back and your surgeon will determine the types of brace required based on the type and location of surgery and your projected recovery time.

Pain Management Injections

Several types of injections can be used to diagnose and treat back pain. In many cases, injections are used for both purposes at the same time.

Epidural Steroid Injections

Epidural steroid injections are commonly used to diagnose and treat neck and back pain. These injections are placed in the epidural space of the spine, which is located between the vertebral bones and the protective covering of the spinal cord.

Facet Injections

Facet injections are a common treatment for patients with back pain that manifests in the facet joints, the joints that connect two vertebrae and allow the spine to perform bending and twisting motions

Facet Ablation

Our minimally invasive facet ablation procedure is aimed to treat arthritis in the spine. Your spine has a series of facet joints on the outside of your spinal cord that lay closest to your skin.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive pain management treatment option proudly offered by Total Spine and Orthopedics.

Medial Branch Blocks

Experiencing chronic back or neck pain can significantly impact your quality of life. Medial Branch Blocks offer a minimally invasive solution, targeting the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain.

Caudal Injection

Lower back pain, leg pain, and sciatica are all relatively common conditions that can severely limit your daily activities and negatively impact your quality of life. Caudal Epidural Steroid Injections offer a minimally invasive solution, delivering steroids directly to the epidural space to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. On this page we will dive into the intricacies of the caudal injection procedure, its benefits, and answers to common questions, helping you understand if it’s the right option for you.

Nerve Block Injections

Selective nerve root block injections (SNRB) are commonly administered to patients experiencing pain resulting from a compressed spinal nerve root.

Our Patients Stories

Hear our patients share their experience with us, All in their own words.

Why Choose Total Spine and Orthopedics

Expert, ultra-minimally invasive spine and orthopedic care, close to home.

  • Ultra-minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques

    We specialize in procedures performed through incisions smaller than a dime, sparing muscle and supporting a faster recovery.

  • Same-day, outpatient procedures

    Most patients walk in and return home within hours, rather than facing an overnight hospital stay.

  • Board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons

    Our team includes early leaders in endoscopic spine surgery.

  • A complimentary MRI review

    Understand your diagnosis and options from a board-certified specialist before committing to any treatment.

  • Trusted by our community

    More than 1,100 patient reviews at a 4.6-star average, and over 50,000 patients treated.

  • Comprehensive spine and orthopedic care

    Physical therapy is coordinated with your physicians as part of one plan.

  • Comprehensive spine and orthopedic care

    From injections to advanced procedures, your full continuum of care is handled in one place.

  • Convenient locations across the Space Coast and Orlando

    Care close to home in Melbourne, Orlando (Lake Nona), and Titusville.

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