Many people, when they think of physical therapy, think of massage and exercise. Although these are definite components, physical therapy is much broader. Dr. Rinehart, Dr. Green, Doctoral Candidates Mr. Frank and  Mr. Peaden, Mrs. Garbiec and Mr. Holtgrewe all have medical backgrounds. They have studied etiology (origin of injury/disease), pathology and treatment (surgical and non-surgical) of dysfunctions that affect the musculoskeletal system. They are licensed professionals who are experts in musculoskeletal dysfunctions. They have extensive training to analyze movement and identify abnormal mechanics. From their assessment they will treat a dysfunction in the appropriate way that will accelerate the recovery process. To enhance this treatment, they will design a specific program that is tailored to the patient.  Remember, there is no magic one way…but there is something to be said about the combination of ways that we tailor for you.

What is a Physical Therapist?

A physical therapist is a person who meets all the requirements and is licensed in the State of Florida to practice physical therapy. Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to the very oldest, who have medical problems or other health‑related conditions, illnesses, or injuries that limits their ability to move and perform functional activities as well as they would like in their daily lives. Physical therapists examine each individual and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. In addition, PTs work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness and wellness‑oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.

Physical therapists provide care to people of all ages who have functional problems resulting from, for example, back and neck injuries, sprains/strains and fractures, arthritis, burns, amputations, stroke, multiple sclerosis, conditions such as cerebral palsy and spina bifida, and injuries related to work and sports. Physical therapists evaluate and diagnose movement dysfunction and use interventions to treat patient/clients. Interventions may include therapeutic exercise, functional training, manual therapy techniques, assistive and adaptive devices and equipment, and physical agents and electrotherapeutic modalities.

Physical therapists often consult and practice with a variety of other professionals, such as physicians, dentists, nurses, educators, social workers, occupational therapists, speech‑language pathologists, and audiologists.             

 What is a Physical Therapist Assistant?

A physical therapist assistant is a person who meets all the requirements and is licensed in the State of Florida. Physical therapist assistants help physical therapists to provide treatment that improves patient mobility, relieves pain, and prevents or lessens physical disabilities of patients.

Physical therapist assistants assist physical therapists in providing care to patients. Under the direction and supervision of physical therapists, they provide exercise, instruction; therapeutic methods like electrical stimulation, mechanical traction, and ultrasound; massage; and gait and balance training. Physical therapist assistants record the patient’s responses to treatment and report the outcome of each treatment to the physical therapist.

What is the Practice of Physical Therapy?

The care and service provided by, or under the direction and supervision of, a Physical Therapist licensed by the state of Florida. It includes:

• Examining, evaluating and testing individuals with health and movement related conditions in order to determine a diagnosis, prognosis, plan of therapeutic intervention, and to assess the on-going effects of intervention.
• Alleviating impairments and functional limitations by designing, implementing, and modifying therapeutic interventions that include, but are not limited to therapeutic exercise.
• Reducing the risk of injury, impairment, functional limitation and disability, including the promotion and maintenance of fitness, health and quality of life in all age populations.
• Engaging in administration, consultation, education and research.

See this A.P.T.A. press release:

• “PHYSICAL THERAPISTS OFFER LOW-COST SOLUTION TO HIGH-COST EXPENDITURES FOR SPINAL CONDITIONS” Why is Physical Therapy different at First Choice Physical Therapy?We at First Choice Physical Therapy understand that there are many options for physical therapy services out there. This is why our name “First Choice” is so fitting. It is our goal to provide the best quality physical therapy services so that your first choice will always be First Choice Physical Therapy.