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In the world of physical therapy, there are a number of specialties that a student can pursue, and each of these specialties present their own unique challenges and rewards to a physical therapist. Let’s take a look at the five most common specialty areas of physical therapy: pediatric, geriatric, neurological, orthopedic and cardiopulmonary.

Pediatric Physical Therapy

Unlike most physical therapists, pediatric physical therapists are as involved with the detection and diagnosis of conditions as they are with helping patients recover from or adapt to impairments. For example, pediatric physical therapists frequently assist with the detection of certain conditions in infants and young children, requiring them to be familiar with the diagnosis of a wide range of developmental, muscular and cognitive disorders and diseases.

Geriatric Physical Therapy

Geriatric physical therapists specialize in assisting patients suffering from disorders and diseases that are common in older adults. Some of the most common ailments that a geriatric physical therapist is able to address include osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s, Arthritis and joint replacement. Generally speaking, these physical therapists help patients restore mobility and physical fitness while reducing pain and maintaining or improving overall quality of life.

Neurological Physical Therapy

There are a number of different neurological conditions that can render a patient in need of physical therapy. Physical therapists who specialize in neurological ailments assist patients adapting to impairments caused by conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and brain injury. Neurological physical therapists have a variety of methods at their disposal to help patients with the activities of daily living.

Orthopedic Physical Therapy

Orthopedic physical therapists is easily the most well known specialty of the physical therapy profession. These therapists help patients recover from injuries and surgeries that have impaired their musculoskeletal system, as well as individuals who are suffering from conditions that have impaired their mobility. Most of this therapy occurs on an out patient basis and focuses on specific types of exercise designed to improve a patient’s particular condition or impairment.

Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy

Cardiopulmonary physical therapists assist patients who are suffering or recovering from cardiological or pulmonary problems, such as heart attacks and pulmonary fibrosis. These therapists can also help patients who are in the process of recovering from bypass surgery.

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Q: Specialty Areas of Physical Therapy
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