Therapy and Programs
Physical Therapy at The Virginian
In November 2005 I suffered a fractured left ankle.
I had become totally disabled due to the injury, hospitalizations and surgery over an eight-month period.
On two occasions I was referred to The Virginian Rehabilitation Department. I have found the therapists to be exceptionally qualified. They are unfailingly professional in administering therapy and, at the same time, caring and considerate of the patient personally.
The therapists' skill and compassion have brought me from a wheel-chair bound disability to walking with an orthopedic shoe on the injured foot and ankle. I use a cane only in difficult situations.
My recovery is a living example of the outstanding professional care provided to me at The Virginian Rehabilitation Department.
E. Eugene Luther
The Virginian offers a comprehensive range of inpatient and outpatient physical therapy services for adults with orthopedic, neurological and medical problems.
Our outstanding therapists are committed to providing the highest level of care for all patients. They also work diligently with families and other caregiver staff to ensure carryover of skills in all daily activities.
To learn more about our Physical Therapy program, click on the following links or scroll down:
- What is physical therapy?
- Who is appropriate for physical therapy?
- How are injuries and disabilities treated?
- The physical therapy staff
- Advanced Clinical Education
- Special programs
What is physical therapy?
Physical Therapists are licensed healthcare professionals who evaluate and treat people with health problems and functional limitations resulting from injury or disease. Physical therapy utilizes non-invasive methods of treatment such as specific exercise programs, hands-on treatment techniques (massage and joint mobilization, for example), and modalities for pain and healing (such as ultrasound, forms of heat and cold, and electrical stimulation). Physical therapy may also involve retraining in balance and activities such as walking and using assistive devices if necessary.
Who is appropriate for physical therapy?
Physical therapy intervention may prevent life-long disability and restore the highest level of function. Specific diseases and conditions that affect older adults that may be treated effectively with physical therapy include:
- Joint replacements
- Hip fractures
- Arthritis
- Neck and back injuries
- Osteoporosis
- Stroke
- Head trauma
- Parkinson’s disease
- Dementia
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Balance disorders
- Cardiac problems
- Pulmonary problems-asthma, COPD
- Amputations
- Cancer
How are injuries and disabilities treated?
Your initial visit will consist of an evaluation including a review of your health history, questions and assessment of any pain you may be having, and tests and measurements specific to your problems. From the evaluation result, a treatment plan will be developed with your input. Treatment will involve sessions in the clinic with your assigned therapist at an agreed upon frequency. Treatment may involve hands-on techniques, modalities, and specific exercises to improve strength, flexibility, balance and movement. You may be working on improving specific functional tasks, such as walking, or climbing stairs. You may also be instructed in a home program.
Education is also a key component of most treatment plans, and may involve training in body mechanics, or how you move and perform tasks to take stress off injured areas.
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The physical therapy staff
The Virginian staff consists of only licensed Physical Therapists and Physical Therapy Assistants. No treatments are performed by aides.
Physical Therapists (PTs) must have a graduate degree from an accredited physical therapy program before taking a national licensure exam. The Commonwealth of Virginia requires continuing education yearly for license renewal. Physical Therapists perform all evaluations and develop treatment plans, in addition to working with you during treatment sessions.
Physical Therapy Assistants (LPTAs) provide physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. LPTAs may work with you during your treatment sessions, and are licensed to perform all modalities, and follow the treatment plans set up by the PT. LPTAs must complete a 2-year associate's degree, must pass a certification exam, and are licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Continuing education hours are a condition of re-licensure.
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Advanced Clinical Education
The Virginian is committed to providing our therapists with all of the tools possible to help our patients. The Virginian sponsors two onsite advanced clinical education courses a year, and also sends therapists to additional clinical education courses on treatment methods such as vestibular rehabilitation, advancements in joint replacements, osteoporosis, cardiopulmonary rehab, and geriatric manual therapy, to name a few.
Special programs
Patients who reside at The Virginian can be directly referred to our Fitness Specialist, Michele McCarthy, to continue an exercise program under her direction in the Fitness Center. Your therapist will give the fitness department specific instructions on your condition, any exercise limitations, and write up an initial program. You may also be encouraged to participate in specific group exercise classes, such as the balance class, stretching class, or senior aerobics. The Virginian also has several instructors certified by the Arthritis Association who teach a group class specifically for those with arthritis. There is no charge to The Virginian residents for participation in group classes. Community seniors may participate in group classes for a monthly fee.
Those who require more intensive help with their post rehab programs will benefit from participation in our Functional Maintenance Programs. Highly trained Rehab Aides assist those who continue to need hands-on physical assistance to transfer, walk, exercise, or stretch. Your therapist will develop a program specific to your needs to maintain gains made during your course of skilled therapy.