Orthopedic injuries can cause pain, stiffness, weakness, and difficulty with everyday activities. Physical therapy can help restore movement, strength, balance, and function while supporting a safe return to daily activities, work, or sports.
According to the CDC, about 53.2 million U.S. adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis, highlighting how common musculoskeletal and joint problems are in the United States.
Here are five common orthopedic injuries that may benefit from physical therapy.
1. Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments around the ankle are stretched or torn, often after a twist or fall.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain and swelling
- Bruising
- Reduced movement
- Difficulty walking
- Ankle instability
Physical therapy may include mobility exercises, strengthening, balance training, and gait rehabilitation to help restore ankle function and reduce the risk of future problems.
Read More: How Physical Therapy Helps Restore Strength After a Long Period of Inactivity
2. ACL and Knee Ligament Injuries
ACL injuries are common in sports involving jumping, pivoting, or sudden changes in direction.
Physical therapy can help restore knee strength, range of motion, balance, and stability. Rehabilitation may be recommended before or after surgery, or as part of non-surgical treatment when appropriate.
3. Rotator Cuff and Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries can make reaching, lifting, dressing, and sleeping uncomfortable.
Physical therapy may include shoulder mobility exercises, strengthening, rotator cuff training, and functional movement exercises. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury.
4. Muscle and Tendon Injuries
Muscle strains and tendon injuries can cause pain, weakness, swelling, and reduced flexibility.
A physical therapist may gradually introduce stretching, strengthening, mobility, and functional exercises to help patients return to normal activities safely.
5. Fractures
After a fracture has been appropriately treated and rehabilitation is cleared, patients may experience stiffness, weakness, poor balance, or difficulty walking.
Physical therapy can help restore mobility, strength, balance, coordination, and functional movement.
When Should You Consider Physical Therapy?
Consider speaking with a physical therapist if an injury is affecting your ability to:
- Walk or move normally
- Exercise or play sports
- Work comfortably
- Perform daily activities
- Move a joint fully
- Maintain strength or balance
The right treatment depends on the injury, symptoms, medical history, and recovery goals.
Read More: Home Safety Modifications for Seniors: Simple Ways to Prevent Falls and Injuries
Get Orthopedic Physical Therapy at Care First Rehab
At Care First Rehab, treatment can be tailored to your injury, mobility limitations, and individual recovery goals. Physical therapy may help you work toward better strength, movement, and function after an orthopedic injury.
Contact Care First Rehab to learn more about personalized orthopedic physical therapy.
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical evaluation or treatment.