Physical therapy isn't just for the injured

How physical therapy can help with rehabilitation and habilitation

- CHESHIRE QUE, RND, RN, RD

"Pain is subjective, so is its intensity. Its impact may vary for each person," says Mary Christine Domingo, a registered physical therapist (PT) and certified stroke rehabilitation specialist. "Pain may also signal an underlying medical condition. Effective pain management depends on proper assessment to identify the source of pain for appropriate treatment."

We are, however, vulnerable to quacks lurking everywhere, offering rehabilitation and pain management programs. Based on RA 5680, or the Philippine Physical and Occupational Therapy Law, "Physical therapy is the art and science of treatment by means of therapeutic exercises, heat, cold, light, water, manual manipulation, electricity, and other physical agents." It is prudent to request for a PT’s license issued by the Professional Regulation Commission to show proof that they are legally qualified to provide assessment, diagnosis, and intervention.

Are PTs the same as fitness coaches?