About Physical Therapy
The goal of physical therapy is to make daily tasks and activities easier. For example, it may help with walking, going upstairs, or getting in and out of bed. Physical therapy can help with recovery after some surgeries. Your doctor may suggest physical therapy for injuries or long-term health problems such as arthritis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Types of Physical Therapy
Common types of physical therapy include:
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Exercise: Physical therapy nearly always involves exercise of some kind that is specifically designed for your injury, illness, condition, or to help prevent future health problems
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Manual therapy: treatment performed mostly with the hands, including massage, mobilization or manipulation
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Cold and ice: to relieve pain, swelling and inflammation
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Heat: to relax and health muscles and soft tissues by increasing blood circulation
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Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): This treatment uses a gentle electric current applied to the skin for pain relief
Learn more about different types of physical therapy.
Kaiser Permanente Members
Our physical therapists work with patients to help them regain functional abilities such as walking, strength, balance, gross motor skills, endurance and more.