Four Stages of PT - Part 2

Tuesday, March 4, 2003 | 0

By Steven Danchik, MA, RPT

The first article of this series reviewed Pain Control and Initiation of Movement. In this article we will review the last of the Four Stages of Physical Therapy.

STAGE III: Restoration of Function

In Stage three, the patient is ready for more active strengthening activities. Spinal stabilization exercises, Swiss ball, cable pulleys, resistive exercise equipment, and advanced manual resistance may be implemented.

Body mechanics are also stressed. The patient, at this point, may receive training in the performance of specific tasks, such as those he must perform at his job. He is also trained in safety, to prevent the reoccurrence of his injury.

The therapist is available to analyze the job site environment for ergonomic and safety issues. There have been instances when the therapist may be able to recommend a simple and cost effective solution to prevent others from being injured.

STAGE IV: Advanced Strengthening and Conditioning

Stage four is the phase of rehabilitation most often ignored. Many times, if a patient