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Ask The Expert - David Bertone PT, OCS
08/24/2009
David Bertone PT, OCS
db Orthopedic PhysicalTherapy, PC
732 Newman Springs Road, Suite 300
Lincroft, NJ 07738
(732) 747-1262
www.dborthopt.com
db Orthopedic PhysicalTherapy, PC is the solo private practice of David Bertone, PT, OCS. Mr. Bertone has 21 years of experience specializing in orthopedic rehabilitation and resolution of musculoskeletal problems. He is also one of only eight physical therapists in Monmouth County to be Board Certified in Orthopedic Physical Therapy, and is a Diplomat by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.The practice’s philosophy is to provide consumers access to cost-effective, evidence-based physical therapy and rehabilitation.
What is meant by Direct Access laws and how do they relate to the ability of the consumer to see a physical therapist directly?
Most consumers don’t realize that they may seek the advice and skills of a physical therapist in New Jersey without getting a prescription or referral from a physician. The only time a referral is needed is if the person has an HMO plan that requires a referral to any specialist. This enables consumers to get immediate treatment for issues affecting their ability to function. It also saves precious health care dollars in this economy, where expensive drugs and special testing are ordered by the physician before active treatment is initiated. Delays can often slow recovery and increase the risk of re-injury. If your condition is beyond your physical therapist’s scope of expertise, or if you present with medical red flags, the therapist is obligated by their practice act to refer you to the appropriate health care professional.
Why would someone go to see a physical therapist for a musculoskeletal injury?
Say you sprain your ankle, acutely injure your back, or wake up with a stiff neck. Early and effective treatment can reduce inflammation, decrease pain, and allow you to function at work and in your daily activities. You will also learn about your problem and be instructed in the necessary precautions and exercises to regain mobility, increase strength, and self-treat your pain.
How are acute versus chronic low back problems handled by a physical therapist? What is the typical approach for treatment of this common problem?
The evaluation process is exactly the same. Most acute low back injuries are the result of a mechanical problem, which, in turn, causes pain, muscle spasm, and limited mobility. It is important for people to know that it is extremely rare to actually strain the lumbar muscles unless you attempt to perform a superhuman lift with contraction of these muscles. Most acute low back pain syndromes develop because of common risk factors set off by a specific event. For example, people tend to use their spine incorrectly by bending, twisting, and slumped postures for many years. These factors build up to cause stress on the spinal discs, joints, ligaments, and muscles. Over time, breakdown can develop in any of the structures causing pain syndrome. This episode can be set off by a simple sneeze, bending over to pick up your child, or even brushing your teeth. The bottom line is that most low back pain can be prevented by using correct body mechanics for all activities, staying fit and flexible, and keeping your body weight in control. When pain does develop, your physical therapist will use repeated movements to determine what eases your pain, and develop a plan using these movements along with the necessary manual therapies to eliminate the pain syndrome. Treatment encourages controlled movements that reduce pain, flexibility exercises help improve tight muscles, and a strengthening
What should people expect when receiving care from a physical therapist?
Once you have chosen your physical therapist, be prepared for a thorough musculoskeletal evaluation. This is important to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to address the problems identified. You will be an active participant in your care, so be prepared. The physical therapist must also be involved in every aspect of your treatment, and you should never be left unsupervised or supervised by unlicensed personnel. Physical therapy is often misunderstood as a “supervised gym program.” This is an inaccurate misconception brought on by the advent of high-volume practices often not owned by a physical therapist. Your physical therapist will use various treatment modalities at their disposal, including heat, ice, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, laser, whirlpool, along with manual therapy and exercise, to solve your problem. The bottom line is, you should make sure you are being treated by a physical therapist and not just receiving physical therapy since, quite often, the difference is obvious.
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