Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Physical therapy is a form of treatment that supports recovery after trauma, surgery, or injury and helps manage symptoms caused by health conditions that affect mobility. Its main goal is to restore the patient’s flexibility, mobility, and strength. In physical therapy and rehabilitation units, various exercises, stretching routines, and movement-based therapies are applied. Physical therapy specialists assess each individual’s physical condition and develop tailored strategies to enhance their functional abilities.

What is Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation?

Physical therapy and rehabilitation are treatment methods commonly used when physical movement becomes limited due to trauma, injury, or surgery. The primary goal is not only to relieve pain but also to help individuals regain mobility and flexibility. In addition, physical therapy can be used preventively to reduce the risk of sports-related injuries. Throughout the process, a physiotherapist offers personalized guidance and support.

The duration of physical therapy varies depending on the type and severity of the injury, the underlying health condition, and the specific body part affected. While some patients may benefit from short-term therapy, others might require sessions that continue for several weeks.

What Does Physical Therapy Treat?

Physical therapy is a treatment method aimed at restoring mobility in individuals who experience limitations due to injury, surgery, illness, or chronic pain. It plays a crucial role in managing both acute and chronic musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.

Common conditions treated with physical therapy include:

• Sports injuries and accidents
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tendinopathy
• Rotator cuff tears
• Neck pain
• Back pain
• Knee pain
• Hip pain
• Ligament injuries of the knee
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Concussions
• Fractures and trauma
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries

In addition to injury recovery, physical therapy may also be required for managing chronic conditions such as:

• Muscular dystrophy
• Parkinson’s disease
• Cystic fibrosis
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Cerebral palsy
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Beyond supporting the recovery process, physical therapy also plays a preventive role by helping to reduce the risk of future musculoskeletal issues. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s condition and goals, promoting both immediate relief and long-term health.

What Are the Types of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation?

Physical therapy is a combination of manual techniques applied by a therapist and guided exercises performed under the supervision of a physiotherapist. It is designed to restore movement, improve flexibility, and strengthen muscles after injury, surgery, or illness.
A typical physical therapy program may include the following components:

• Stretching exercises to improve range of motion and prevent stiffness.
• Strength training using weights or resistance to build muscle support.
• Manual therapy, such as massage, applied by the physiotherapist to relax muscles and improve circulation.
• Heat or cold therapy to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, or promote healing.
• Hydrotherapy, which uses water resistance for low-impact movement and pain relief.
• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) to manage chronic pain by delivering mild electrical currents.

Physical therapy is usually provided on an outpatient basis, meaning patients do not need to stay in a hospital or clinic. Treatment plans are tailored individually, aiming for a safe and gradual return to functional movement.

What Are the Benefits of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation?

Physical therapy and rehabilitation not only aim to address health problems but also focus on improving overall quality of life. Treatment plans are personalized and vary depending on the individual's age and specific needs.
The benefits of physical therapy and rehabilitation can be listed as follows:

• Reduction of pain caused by musculoskeletal disorders
• Improvement of range of motion through exercises and stretching programs
• Prevention or delay of the need for surgical intervention
• Acceleration of tissue recovery after trauma, surgery, or injury
• Correction of posture and balance disorders
• Alleviation of symptoms in chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, MS, and COPD

What Are the Risks of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation?

Although physical therapy and rehabilitation are generally considered safe treatment methods, like any medical procedure, they may involve certain risks and side effects. These risks largely depend on the individual's overall health condition, the treatment approach, and how the therapy is administered.
Potential risks may include:

• Temporary pain or discomfort in muscles and joints
• Muscle strain or soft tissue injury due to improper movements or overexertion
• Physical fatigue resulting from prolonged or intensive therapy sessions
• Skin irritation or allergic reactions caused by certain devices or materials used during therapy

What Services Are Offered in the Field of Physical Therapy?

Following an illness or injury, our Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Departments offer an extensive range of services designed to help patients regain their strength, mobility, and independence. These services are delivered through specialized, patient-centered programs and include:

Orthopedic Physical Therapy

This branch focuses on treating musculoskeletal conditions such as sprains, strains, fractures, and post-operative recovery. Our therapists work closely with patients using manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and physical modalities to reduce pain, restore range of motion, and strengthen affected areas.

Neurological Physical Therapy

Patients affected by neurological disorders such as stroke, spinal cord injury, or traumatic brain injury can benefit from structured rehabilitation plans. These include task-specific exercises, gait training, and balance improvement techniques aimed at restoring coordination, stability, and motor function.

Geriatric Physical Therapy

Our geriatric programs cater to older adults experiencing age-related challenges such as decreased mobility, balance difficulties, and muscle weakness. Interventions include fall prevention strategies, flexibility training, and strength-building exercises to enhance quality of life and maintain independence.

Sports Physical Therapy

Designed for athletes and physically active individuals recovering from injuries, sports therapy focuses on a safe and efficient return to activity. Our therapists employ sport-specific training, injury prevention techniques, and rehabilitation modalities to support functional recovery.

Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services

In addition to physical therapy, our multidisciplinary rehabilitation services include:

• Occupational Therapy: Aiding patients in regaining independence with daily living activities and improving fine motor skills.
• Speech Therapy: Supporting patients with speech, language, and swallowing disorders.
• Rehabilitation Nursing: Providing medical support, pain management, and health education to enhance recovery outcomes.

Robotic-Assisted Rehabilitation

Our state-of-the-art robotic technologies offer advanced treatment options such as robotic gait training, computerized balance exercises, and upper limb rehabilitation. These systems allow for precise, tailored therapy plans that accelerate progress and improve functional outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

How long does a physical therapy session last?

A physical therapy session varies from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type and intensity of treatment required.

Is physical therapy painful?

However, the body may experience some discomfort or mild pain as it adapts to the therapeutic activities performed during treatment.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of physical therapy sessions needed varies depending on the individual's age, overall health status, existing condition, and how well they respond to treatment. While a few sessions may be sufficient for some patients, those with chronic conditions or serious injuries may require therapy that lasts for several weeks or even months.