Physical Therapy Equipment Knowledge of how the body works—its ability to gain strength and mobility with proper training, its ability to recover from repetitive injuries and sudden traumas—and how to relate to individuals in a caring and supportive manner are the hallmarks of a good physical therapist. Therapists work hands with their patients, using the body as a tool toward its own treatment. Showing patients how to bend, stretch, move and exercise to not only heal, but also prevent further injury. In the treatment of many issues, Physical Therapy Equipment provides a helping hand to the therapist. What Type of Equipment is Available? Physical Therapy Equipment includes a diverse range of machines, wraps, supports, toys, analyzing equipment and assistive devices. For every condition or injury there is a full complement of Physical Therapy Equipment available. Some equipment is designed specifically for use in a physical therapy clinic, but a great deal of the items available can be purchased by individual consumers and used at home as part of their therapy or as an augmentation to their therapeutic routine. Medical Machines If you've been to a gym, then you'll have a good idea of what some of these Physical Therapy Equipment machines look like. These fitness systems provide targeted workouts that produce specific results. The more sophisticated of these devices will use computer sensors to test motion range, strength, cardiac function and other patient factors. The most common medical machines are: Rehabilitation Treadmill Upper Body Cycle Semi Recumbent Cycle Balance System (assesses and develops balance) Machines targeted at the back such as Cervical and Lumbar extension equipment Toys Balls, finger exercisers, foam rollers, wedges and stacking cones all have rehabilitation benefits. Most of these toys are Physical Therapy Equipment whose simplicity belies the fact that they can be of great benefit to patients needing improvement in specific areas. Patients with limited shoulder motion, difficulties with eye-hand coordination and balance deficits can be helped through the use of this type of Physical Therapy Equipment. Here's a brief rundown of some available devices: Exercise Ball—inflatable plastic ball can be used for both kids and adults for balance development and strengthening of areas like arms and abdomen Handball—improves strength, speed, blood flow of hand and fingers and has rehabilitative uses in stroke and carpal tunnel syndrome Foam Rollers—foam rollers can improve posture, provide muscle reeducation, and improve spinal stabilization Aquatic Kickboard—designed for pool use, the kickboard helps strengthen upper and lower extremities and improves muscle toning Everything Else While much of the Physical Therapy Equipment covered thus far works the body, many of these items are designed to support the body and relieve stress and pain. These items include orthopedic pillows, neoprene back/knee/ankle supports, hand supports, foot supports, ultrasound equipment and contracture therapy products. Neoprene Back/Knee/Ankle Supports—can help reduce trauma from repetitive motion, provide support to post-operative patients. Orthopedic Pillows—pillows designed to lend support to the neck, shoulders and head while countering any uneven pressure on the vertebrae. Contracture Therapy—semi-rigid support systems used in post-operative or post-traumatic patients to help stretch and strengthen the extremities. Can help prevent stiffening and contraction of musculoskeletal structures. Ultrasound Equipment—in combination with a conductive gel, Ultrasound is applied to the body to increase blood supply, reduce muscle spasm and soften fibrous tissues allowing for greater healing and increased motion in the physical therapy patient . Where Can You Find Equipment If you need to buy equipment for your clinic, or your home, there are many sources you can turn to on the Internet. Physical Therapy Equipment can be expensive, so research online retailers for the best pricing, shipping, and availability of customer service. If shopping for a clinic, find a retailer that offers discounts to medical buyers or that has a service representative who can negotiate reduced prices for you on the Physical Therapy Equipment you need to purchase in greater than normal quantities. If purchasing medical machines, take the time to research the product specifications and to test the product in person to make certain it is sufficient for your needs. By MS Kauffman            Related Links: American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Information on physical therapy and what the job entails.

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