Specialties in physical therapy

Physical therapy focuses on the treatment of physical complaints and injuries to the human musculoskeletal system. A physical therapist can further specialize in different directions within the field.

The physical therapist has completed training to become a movement specialist. During this training, extensive attention is paid to, among other things, human anatomy, physical examination, and different treatment methods. Everything is aimed at helping the patient as well as possible.

Specializations

A physical therapist can specialize further. Additional training is then taken to delve more deeply into a particular body region or a specific condition. The set-up of a treatment plan with a specialized physical therapist looks more or less the same. The physical examination and treatment methods will differ depending on the specialty.

Below is an overview of the different specializations within physical therapy.

Treatment by a specialized physical therapist does not always add value. The added value depends on the patient's symptom pattern and whether there is a specialty for those symptoms.

Treatment plan with the physical therapist

The structure of a treatment plan with a physical therapist is roughly as follows.

Intake
At the first visit, an intake and examination will take place. Questions are asked to find out what the exact complaint is, how it arose, what problems it causes, and so on.

Examination
Next, a physical examination will be performed during which the physical therapist looks at how you move and what the limitations are. This is done using different tests. The physical therapist will then discuss with the patient what is going on and what can be done.

Treatment
Together with the physical therapist, the patient works to reduce or resolve the symptoms. This can be done, for example, through mobilizing techniques to improve joint movement, exercise therapy to strengthen weak links in the body, massage, or posture and movement advice. During the treatment plan, progress will be monitored and the treatment adjusted where necessary.

Treatment can take place individually or, sometimes, in groups. Increasing attention is also being paid to preventive care, to prevent symptoms from arising. Here, too, the physical therapist has a role.

Where does a general physical therapist work?

Physical therapists can be found in different settings. They often work in a private practice, hospital, rehabilitation center, or nursing home. More and more physical therapists are also associated with sports clubs.