Physical Therapy

Consider physical therapy if you experience an illness or an injury that makes it difficult to perform routine tasks. At Northwest Wellness in Federal Way, Washington, the team uses physical therapy to help people of all ages function, move, and live more independently. Your Physical Therapy team includes Rachel Herron, PT, DPT, and the physical therapist assistant, Ashlyn Nicole, PTA. Call Northwest Wellness today to request a physical therapy consultation, or request your appointment online.

What is physical therapy?

Physical Therapy is therapeutic treatment that is provided in circumstances where function and movement are effected by disease, injury, aging or other factors. It uses physical methods of treatment, rather than drugs or surgery.

What does a physical therapist do?

Physical Therapy is therapeutic treatment that is provided in circumstances where function and movement are effected by disease, injury, aging or other factors. It uses physical methods of treatment, rather than drugs or surgery.

At Northwest Wellness, the physical therapists and physical therapist assistants work alongside the chiropractors and other specialists to develop personalized physical therapy treatment plans.

Physical therapist use a physical exam and a patient's health history to diagnosis and attempt to treat injuries and illnesses that limit the performance of daily activities. While managing patient's care, a physical therapist may use specific exercises, manual therapy and mobilization, traction devices, cold/heat and other interventions. 

A physical therapist can be of assistance to prevent further loss of mobility by developing a plan for a healthier lifestyle, that includes exercises, that will restore functional ability and maximum movement.

Your Physical Therapy team at Northwest Wellness includes Rachel Herron, PT, DPT, and the physical assistant, Ashlyn Nicole, PTA.

What types of issues can physical therapy treat?

At Northwest Wellness, the team uses physical therapy to:

• Relieve musculoskeletal pain
• Optimize movement and independence 
• Prevent disability or surgery
• Work on balance to reduce the risk of a slip or fall
• Help people use splints or braces
• Help mothers recover after giving birth

Physical therapy can help speed up your recovery after a car accident or work injury. It can also reduce the symptoms of chronic musculoskeletal issues like arthritis and fibromyalgia.

What happens at a physical therapy consultation?

Before developing a personalized treatment plan, your Northwest Wellness provider reviews your medical records and assesses your needs. They ask about your symptoms and lifestyle and have you perform a few easy exercises, checking your movement and ability to complete simple tasks.

Next, they conduct several tests, observing your posture, balance, and gait (the way you walk). They listen to your heartbeat during rest and exercise and assess your muscle strength, range of motion, and reflexes.

Your provider uses that information to make treatment recommendations with a focus on achieving your personal goals. 

What does physical therapy involve?

No two physical therapy treatment plans are exactly alike. The team at Northwest Wellness may recommend:

• Exercises or stretches guided by a therapist
• Soft tissue mobilization
• Hot and cold therapy
• Mobility devices, like crutches or a walker

The goal is to relieve pain, restore your function, and help you return to the activities you love.

How long does physical therapy take?

The time that physical therapy takes depends on the issue treated and the severity of your symptoms. Soft tissue injuries, like sprains and strains, typically improve within six or eight weeks*, but more severe injuries may take longer. Make sure to follow your provider’s instructions and attend each checkup.

Call Northwest Wellness today to request a physical therapy appointment, or make your appointment online.