Physical therapists evaluate a patient’s overall functional mobility.  This includes the assessment of joint motion, strength, coordination, balance, and sensation, and the effect that these areas have on getting in and out of bed, walking, and stairclimbing. 

Treatment includes therapeutic exercise, gait training, modalities (heat and cold treatment, whirlpool, electrical stimulation, TENS, and ultrasound), and patient/family education. 

Physical therapists also recommend wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and canes as needed.  If a lower extremity orthotic or prosthetic is required, physical therapy works with the Brace Shop to address this need.