In the simplest terms, physical therapy is evidence-based practice to help restore and improve motion for patients. This is done without the need for medication through a variety of treatments including: hands on techniques (manual therapy), different modalities such as electrical stimulation or ultrasound, flexibility, strength training and education.
In our practice, we focus on the whole-body connection. We spend time talking with you about what you are feeling and educating you about your diagnosis, treatment and the rehabilitation process. We will educate you on the emotional connection to your injury or pain and may make referrals to other health care providers as needed. Physical therapists are trusted health care professionals who have extensive education and experience in diagnosing and treating conditions that limit the body’s ability to move and function in daily life.
Pain Science Practice versus traditional Physical Therapy Practice
One of the first steps of treating with a pain science focus is to ask more in-depth questions about medical history and possible traumatic experiences that may have impacted a patient’s pain experience. This is followed by an evaluation that incorporates the nervous system as well as the musculoskeletal system. Educating patients in the neuroscience of pain is also a vital part of the evaluation and treatment process.
Exercises that are proven to soothe and "nourish" the nerves are incorporated into treatment plans for those patients with peripheral nerve pain such as sciatica. These exercises are known as "nerve glides" or "nerve flossing". See "What Are Nerve Glides (AKA Nerve Flossing)?".
Often, this population does not tolerate a traditional exercise program. Therefore, a more graded approach to activity is followed. This utilizes a technique called "graded motor imagery". Visualization is part of graded motor imagery. See "Using your brain to ease your pain" for a description of how Dr. Hickman uses her own pain story to help a patient resolve pain from an injury using visualization.
In addition, clinical methodologies that are not proven to have lasting benefit are not incorporated into patient treatment plans. For example, the clinic does not incorporate ultrasound therapy in treatment plans for patients who are experiencing persistent pain because, while patients may enjoy the sensation of warmth provided by ultrasound therapy, this therapy is not proven to resolve chronic pain. See "A Review of Therapeutic Ultrasound: Effectiveness Studies".