Therapists
Physical therapist (P.T.)
Occupational therapists (O.T.)
Psychologist
- Physical therapist (P.T.)—Physical
therapists are college graduates who, after two to
three years of postgraduate education, obtain an advanced
degree in Physical Therapy and are state licensed
practitioners. Other medical specialists (such as
spine surgeons, chiropractors, and physiatrists) frequently
refer their patients to a Physical Therapist.
Therapists examine patients’ medical histories,
test and measure strength, range of motion, balance
and coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration,
and motor function. Next, they develop treatment plans
that include treatment goals, steps and anticipated
outcome. During a course of treatment, physical therapists
document the patient’s progress, conduct periodic
examinations, and modify treatments as necessary.
For patients who have been immobilized and lack flexibility,
strength, or endurance, treatment often includes exercise.
Physical therapy encourages patients to use their
own muscles to further increase flexibility and range
of motion before finally advancing to other exercises
improving strength, balance, coordination, and endurance.
To relieve pain and reduce swelling, physical therapy
often includes the use of modalities, or passive physical
therapy, such as electrical stimulation, hot packs
or cold compresses, and ultrasound. Traction or deep-tissue
massage may also be used to relieve pain. When necessary,
therapists teach patients to use assistive and adaptive
devices (such as crutches) and frequently teach patients
exercises to do at home to expedite their recovery.
Physical therapists often consult and practice with
a variety of other professionals, and some are part
of an integrated spine practice. Some physical therapists
treat a wide range of ailments; others specialize
in areas such as orthopedics, sports medicine, or
neurology.
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- Occupational therapists (O.T.)—The
American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. describes
an O.T. as “skilled treatment that helps individuals
achieve independence in all facets of their lives.
Occupational Therapy gives people the "Skills
for the Job of Living" they need to live satisfying
lives. Services typically include:
- Specific therapy programs to improve the patient’s
abilities to carry out normal daily activities
- Evaluation of work and home environments and
recommendations on necessary adaptation
- Assessments and treatment for performance skills
- Recommendations and training in the use of adaptive
equipment to replace lost function
- Guidance to family members and attendants in
safe and effective methods of caring for individuals.
Occupational therapists’ education includes
the study of human growth and development with specific
emphasis on the social, emotional, and physiological
effects of illness and injury. The occupational
therapist enters the field with a bachelor's, master's,
or doctoral degree. Practitioners must complete
supervised clinical internships in a variety of
health care settings, and pass a national examination.
Most states also regulate occupational therapy practice.
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- Psychologist—The HCFA
definition of a clinical psychologist is “an
individual who holds a doctoral degree in psychology;
and is licensed or certified, on the basis of the
doctoral degree in psychology by the State in which
he or she practices, at the independent practice level
of psychology to furnish diagnostic, assessment, preventive
and therapeutic services directly to individuals.”
After completing a Ph.D. program in psychology, some
psychologists complete further training focusing specifically
on the treatment of chronic pain. Psychologists can
help people with stress relief, as well as coping
with chronic back or neck pain. They can also treat
depression, which is fairly common for patients suffering
from chronic pain.
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By: Philip
R. Shalen, MD
November 14, 2000
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