Geriatric Physical Therapy in the Greater Phoenix Area

Serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, Mesa, Ahwatukee, Gilbert, and Fountain Hills

A separately defined medical specialty since 1989, geriatric physical therapy covers a wide range of plans and programs. It helps to address the common physical and neurological issues that often accompany the aging process. These concerns include general aches and pains. However, more targeted geriatric physical therapy targets conditions associated with aging, including arthritis, osteoporosis, and post-surgical care.

With geriatric physical therapy, patients can improve their physical abilities. A good plan helps to improve both balance and strength, reducing the risk of falling while ensuring patients feel comfortable taking on many of the tasks that may currently prove difficult. Geriatric physical therapy helps people stay active during a time when physical activity may be limited and improves confidence in both mental and physical faculties.

This type of therapy takes several forms, the most apparent being exercise programs. However, it also includes manual therapy, which enhances mobility by improving circulation. Education is also a key component in geriatric physical therapy, especially for learning how to use new devices and understanding how different exercises create benefits.

Why Is Geriatric Physical Therapy Important?

As a patient ages, they may find that their body and mind don’t perform at their previous levels. Unfortunately, older people face risks related to falling in addition to medical conditions that primarily affect geriatric patients. These issues highlight the importance of geriatric physical therapy.

There are many reasons to take part in geriatric physical therapy. Its focus on building endurance and strength provides patients with ways to stay active. It prevents muscle atrophy, a serious concern for those who’ve recently undergone surgery or who have limited mobility. Geriatric physical therapy improves balance, decreasing the risk of the patient experiencing a fall and the injuries that may occur.

But perhaps the most important benefit for most is that this therapy gives people confidence. It helps them become strong enough to participate in activities they enjoy while granting them the independence to perform daily activities.

Geriatric conditions treated with physical therapy include, but are not limited to:

  • Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

  • Osteopenia and osteoporosis

  • Cancer-related complications

  • Alzheimer’s disease

  • Joint replacement and other orthopedic surgeries

  • Neurological disorders, Stroke, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Vestibular and Balance disorders

  • Complications related to obesity

  • Generalized weakness and loss of function

OUR REVIEWS

Our goal is to provide supportive and effective patient care.