Physical Therapy

Physical therapists work closely with doctors and teams to evaluate each patient looking at their strength, range of motion, coordination and balance. While each patient receives treatment specific to their needs, some common treatments used at AZPTC include:

Exercise is the best treatment for back and neck pain. Exercise programs are developed based on physical capabilities and potential. AZPTC has special spine exercise equipment that is designed specifically to assist back and neck pain patients. Patients are taught exercises to strengthen and improve movement, which can be done at home or on their own at the gym following their treatment at AZPTC.

Stabilization therapies are a combination of strengthening and body mechanics. Patients learn positions and a neutral posture, which reduces pressure on the low back. This therapy helps many patients resume their everyday activities and improve their range of motions.

Movement therapies help a patient regain full movement of all parts of their body. Patients will experience improved freedom of movement and balance. Patients learn which movements may cause injury and how to move without causing injury or pain. Therapies include stretching, use of muscles, and understanding the body's own rhythms.

Soft tissue therapies include movements and exercises targeting muscles, ligaments, and connecting tissues.

Pain control therapies can include heat, ice, and electrical stimulation.

Education is an important part of any treatment plan. Patients learn good posture, how to move, how to best perform daily activities like lifting and bending, and learning to deal with limitations. Patients assume responsibility for continuing their own exercise and therapy programs by learning techniques they can do at home or at the gym