To help a patient regain muscle strength or flexibility after a long convalescence (con-va-LESS-sense) or injury, physical therapy may be prescribed by a doctor and carried out by a physical therapist. In some cases, a physical therapist can visit a home-bound patient to provide treatment. A person confined to bed can still get active exercise, unless they're paralyzed (PAIR-a-lized) or immobilized (im-MO-bill-lized) because of injury. 'Active' exercises are those carried out by the individual. A period of wiggling toes, rotating ankles, and flexing and stretching the arms and legs will stimulate circulation and prevent joint stiffening. If the patient is too weak to move or is paralyzed, passive movements are made on the person's body by the physical therapist. The patient's joints are gently bent and straightened so they do not stiffen. Other types of therapy include massage, manipulation, heat, ultrasound, and electrotherapy (eh-LEK-tro-THAIR-uh-pee). For more information on home physical therapy, talk to your doctor or call a home health agency.
©2006 Crossroads Mobile. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
