Often abbreviated PT, is a health care profession. Physical therapy is concerned with identifying and maximizing quality of life and movement potential within the spheres of promotion, prevention, diagnosis, treatment/intervention, and rehabilitation. This encompasses physical, psychological, emotional, and social well being.

Physical therapy is also a unique science and art that utilizes a wide variety of procedures to restore function to the body, reduce pain and help prevent future injury. Our talented physical therapist will devise an individualized treatment plan to achieve the specific goals of each patient. After an initial physical examination and diagnosis by a physician, patients are referred to Santa Cruz Spine and Sport physical therapy.

At the first visit, a patient undergoes an initial evaluation and an individualized treatment program is designed, in conjunction with the physician’s prescription, to meet the patient’s specific rehabilitative needs. Under the supervision of a physical therapist, patient goals are established and treatment begins. Various physical therapy modalities may be utilized during treatment, including traction, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, ice and heat, as well as therapeutic exercise and manual therapy.