Celebrate National Physiotherapy Month by learning more about the importance of physiotherapy. A physical therapist has an undergraduate degree and a doctorate in physical therapy degree, which is another three years. Physical therapy uses repetitive exercises to build strength, but sometimes massage, acupuncture, and electrical stimulation are also used.
Take a closer look at the origins of physiotherapy. It’s one of the best ways to ensure your mom heals from a hip fracture and avoids additional falls.
A Brief History of Physical Therapy
The first known uses of physiotherapy date back to Ancient China and Ancient Greece where exercise and massage were used to ease pain and discomfort while improving motion.
By the 1800s and 1900s, physical therapy was used more than ever due to the Industrial Revolution and both World Wars. Injuries, even some that were disabling, were happening more and more as equipment, tools, and machines became part of everyday life. Physical therapy became helpful in restoring mobility and fine motor skills in workers and soldiers who were injured.
Today, physical therapists are everywhere. As Baby Boomers age and become prone to disabling conditions like arthritis, MS, Parkinson’s, ALS, and Alzheimer’s, the need for these experts is tremendous. They work in nursing homes, private practices, hospitals, and retirement homes.
Younger adults, teens, and children also see physical therapists to help with healing after a sports injury, fall, or car accident. It’s an important field, and one that many older adults have personal experience with due to the problems that arise as muscles and bones get older.
What Happens After Your Mom’s Hip Surgery?
Your mom will meet with her physical therapist first to be introduced and learn more about what will happen in the weeks and months to come. The first meeting is an assessment of your mom’s movement. Her physical therapist will go over her medical chart, check any specific notes from the surgeon, and come up with a treatment plan.
As your mom’s mobility is going to improve over time, she may see her physical therapist a lot in the first weeks. Sometimes, it’s best to have the physical therapist come to your mom’s home until she’s able to get in and out of a car.
Each week, your mom will work on the exercises she’s taught. She may use a walker at first and rely on it less as the weeks progress. As her range of motion improves, she’ll be able to walk longer and farther with you and other family caregivers.
Talk to her surgeon and ask about the benefits of physical therapy during your mom’s recovery. As you get the information you need to schedule your mom’s first physical therapy sessions, make sure you call and arrange home visits from a physical therapist as soon as you can.
If you or someone you know needs Physical Therapy in Buffalo, MN, contact Adara Home Health. We provide quality and affordable home care services for many fragile or senior members in the communities we serve. Call us at (888) 660-5772 for more information.