Geriatric Physical Therapist in Hinsdale, IL

A geriatric physical therapist works with older adults to help them improve mobility, manage pain, and prevent falls. They may work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, or patients’ homes. Geriatric physical therapists help older adults regain strength and flexibility, improve balance, and increase endurance. They may also work with patients who have chronic conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, or Parkinson’s disease, as well as those recovering from strokes or other accidents. Geriatric physical therapists also guide fall prevention and home safety.

Geriatric physical therapy typically refers to the branch of physical therapy that focuses on the care and treatment of older adults. Geriatric physical therapists work with patients who are generally 65 years of age and older, although some may work with younger adults who have chronic conditions or illnesses that affect mobility. Geriatric physical therapy focuses on helping older adults maintain or improve their ability to move and stay active, as well as managing age-related conditions that can affect mobility, such as arthritis or osteoporosis. Geriatric physical therapists will use therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, assistive devices, and other modalities to help older adults achieve their mobility goals.

The best type of physical therapy for older adults will depend on the individual’s specific needs and conditions. However, some common interventions that may be used in geriatric physical therapy include:

• Exercise programs – Geriatric physical therapists may design exercise programs that focus on building strength, improving flexibility, and enhancing balance. This can help to improve mobility, reduce the risk of falls, and decrease pain.
• Manual therapy – Geriatric physical therapists may use manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue mobilization to help older adults manage pain and improve mobility.
• Assistive devices – Geriatric physical therapists may recommend and fit older adults with assistive devices such as walkers, canes, or orthotics to help them move more easily and safely.
• Education and training – Geriatric physical therapists may provide education and training to older adults and their caregivers on fall prevention, proper body mechanics, and home safety.
• Adaptive equipment – Geriatric physical therapists may suggest adaptive equipment such as standers, wheelchairs, or gait trainers, to provide better support for the patients.

Older adults need to work with a geriatric physical therapist who is knowledgeable about the specific needs and conditions of older adults and can tailor an individualized treatment plan to suit their needs.

Several different types of physical therapy may be used to help older adults maintain or improve their mobility and overall health. Some examples include:

• Geriatric physical therapy – This type of physical therapy is specifically tailored to the needs of older adults and may include interventions such as exercise programs, manual therapy, assistive devices, and fall prevention education.
• Orthopedic physical therapy – This type of physical therapy is focused on the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, such as arthritis and osteoporosis, and may include interventions such as exercise, manual therapy, and assistive devices.
• Neurological physical therapy – This type of physical therapy is focused on the treatment of conditions that affect the nervous system, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis.
• Cardiopulmonary physical therapy – This type of physical therapy is focused on the treatment of conditions that affect the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, such as heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Aquatic therapy – This type of physical therapy is conducted in water, and can be beneficial for older adults as it can provide a low-impact form of exercise, improved range of motion, and stronger muscles.
• Yoga therapy – This type of physical therapy is based on yoga principles and practices, which can include breathing techniques, body postures, and relaxation techniques. Yoga therapy can be very beneficial for older adults in terms of balance, flexibility, and mental well-being.

As many older adults have multiple conditions or needs, a combination of different types of physical therapy may be used to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses specific needs and goals.

With our specialized geriatric physical therapy program, you can alleviate the pain, health concerns, and lifestyle constraints that come with age. We are conveniently located at 7146 Edinger Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647. For more information, please contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Huntington Beach CA, Fountain Valley CA, Westminster CA, Costa Mesa CA, Newport Beach CA, Midway City CA, and surrounding areas.