Who are physical therapists? What do they do?

You’ve probably have heard of physical therapy. Maybe a family member or friend has been treated by a physical therapist to help with back pain or recover from an injury or surgery. But, who are physical therapists (PT), and what do they do?

Physical therapists are experts in the examination and treatment of problems related to muscles, nerves, and joints – conditions that limit people’s ability to move and live as they wish. Physical therapy can restore or increase strength, range of motion, flexibility, coordination and endurance- as well as reduce pain. But their most important role is to get the patients back to their daily activities.

The most common reasons patients choose Northern Michigan Sports Medicine Center to see our physical therapists are:

  • Orthopedic Injuries/Surgeries
  • Sports Related Injuries
  • Total Knee Replacement
  • Total Hip Replacement
  • ACL Reconstruction
  • Rotator Cuff Surgeries
  • Sacroiliac (SI) Dysfunction
  • Low Back Pain
  • Neck Pain
  • Headaches
  • Vestibular Disorders
  • Tendonitis
  • Balance & Coordination Disorders
  • Orthotics
  • Work Related Injuries
  • Arthritis
  • Ankle Sprain
  • Carpal Tunnel
  • Hip Fractures
  • Knee Pain
  • Shoulder Dislocation
  • Sprains and Muscle Strains
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Sciatica
  • Vertigo
  • Pelvic Pain
  • Incontinence
  • Osteoporosis
  • Weight Management/Wellness/Fitness

Visit one of our clinics in Petoskey, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Indian River and Harbor Springs to discuss your concerns and goals. We offer free consultations  to help answer your questions about how our Physical Therapists can help you