Physical Therapy

Reviewed by our Healthcare Team Member

Raymond Baule, MD

Raymond Baule, MD, FACS, FAANS is a seasoned and fellowship trained neurosurgeon based in Long Island with extensive experience in both cranial and spinal conditions.

Nitin Mariwalla, MD

Nitin R. Mariwalla, MD, MPH, MS is the Founder of New York Brain, Spine & Joint. He originally opened his private practice in the Long Island, New York region. He has a broad clinical interest in all aspects of the surgical and nonsurgical treatment of diseases involving the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves.

Physical therapy (PT) plays a pivotal role in the rehabilitation and management of various musculoskeletal, neurological, and chronic pain conditions. At our multi-location, multi-disciplinary medical practice in the New York City metro area, licensed physical therapists deliver personalized, evidence-based care that restores strength, improves flexibility, enhances mobility, and supports overall independence and quality of life.

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is a healthcare specialty dedicated to evaluating, diagnosing, and treating functional impairments caused by injuries, illnesses, surgery, or chronic conditions. It involves carefully structured exercises, manual therapies, and education to help patients recover mobility, reduce pain, prevent future injuries, and achieve their individual health goals.
Conditions Benefiting from Physical Therapy

Physical therapy addresses a broad spectrum of conditions, including:

Post-Surgical Recovery

  •     Spine surgery (e.g., spinal fusion, discectomy)
  •     Joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
  •     Orthopedic procedures (rotator cuff repair, ACL reconstruction, fracture fixation)

Sports and Orthopedic Injuries

  •     ACL and ligament tears
  •     Rotator cuff injuries
  •     Sprains, strains, and tendonitis (tennis elbow, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis)
  •     Stress fractures and repetitive motion injuries

Chronic Pain Conditions

  •     Arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
  •     Low back and neck pain
  •     Fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome
  •     Chronic headaches and migraines related to muscle tension

Neurological Disorders

  •     Stroke rehabilitation
  •     Parkinson’s disease
  •     Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  •     Peripheral neuropathy
  •     Traumatic brain injuries

Balance Disorders and Fall Prevention

  •     Vertigo and dizziness
  •     Age-related balance issues
  •     Fall-risk assessment and reduction programs

Work-Related and Repetitive Strain Injuries

  •     Carpal tunnel syndrome
  •     Occupational back pain
  •     Ergonomic injuries related to prolonged computer use or repetitive activities

The Benefits of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy provides both immediate and long-term health benefits, including:

  •     Pain Reduction: Therapeutic exercises, manual techniques, and modalities like heat or cold therapy significantly reduce pain and inflammation.
  •     Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility: Personalized stretching and strengthening exercises restore normal movement patterns, improve joint function, and enhance flexibility.
  •     Strength and Conditioning: Focused strength training reduces risk of reinjury, promotes stability, and accelerates functional recovery.
  •     Improved Balance and Coordination: Specific exercises address balance impairments, reducing fall risks and enhancing overall stability.
  •     Avoiding Surgery: In some cases, physical therapy can delay or even eliminate the need for surgery through effective conservative management.
  •     Faster Post-Surgical Recovery: Structured post-operative therapy speeds healing, reduces complications, and promotes better surgical outcomes.
  •     Improved Quality of Life: By restoring independence and daily functioning, physical therapy enhances patients' overall well-being and emotional health.

Comprehensive Physical Therapy Techniques

At our NYC metro area practice, we employ advanced physical therapy methods tailored specifically to each patient’s needs:

Manual Therapy

  •     Joint mobilization techniques to restore normal joint function.
  •     Soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, and therapeutic massage for muscle relaxation and pain relief.

Strengthening and Conditioning Programs

  •     Custom exercise regimens to build core strength, stability, and muscular endurance, crucial for long-term health and function.

Balance and Gait Training

  •     Exercises and strategies to reduce fall risk, improve coordination, and ensure safe, confident mobility.

Postural Correction and Ergonomics

  •     Guidance on correct posture and ergonomics to prevent future injuries, especially beneficial for workplace-related issues.

Sports-Specific Rehabilitation

  •     Athlete-focused rehabilitation emphasizing return-to-play strategies, performance enhancement, and injury prevention.

Aquatic Therapy

  •     Low-impact exercises performed in water, ideal for reducing joint stress and allowing early mobilization post-injury or surgery.

Our physical therapists thoroughly assess your unique condition, history, and lifestyle, crafting personalized rehabilitation programs that evolve with your progress. Regular monitoring and adjustments ensure optimal recovery and long-term benefits. Physical therapists work collaboratively with orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, neurologists, pain specialists, and primary care physicians. This integrated approach ensures cohesive treatment plans, seamless communication, and improved outcomes.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Equipment

Our facilities are equipped with cutting-edge rehabilitation tools, enabling the implementation of advanced techniques, innovative therapies, and evidence-based care tailored to your rehabilitation goals.

Patient education is integral to our treatment philosophy. Therapists provide education on injury prevention, self-management strategies, and long-term exercise programs designed to maintain and enhance physical gains achieved during therapy.

Why Choose Our Physical Therapy Team?

  •     Expertise: Highly skilled, licensed physical therapists specializing in orthopedic, neurological, sports, and spine rehabilitation.
  •     Personalized Attention: Each patient receives individualized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs and goals.
  •     Comprehensive Rehabilitation: A full spectrum of services and collaborative care provided by an expert team within a single, convenient location.
  •     Proven Results: Our approach emphasizes measurable progress, reduced pain, improved function, and lasting patient satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How long does physical therapy typically last?
    Treatment duration depends on your condition and individual goals. Generally, plans range from a few weeks to several months, with sessions typically 2-3 times per week.
  • Does physical therapy hurt?
    Physical therapy aims to alleviate pain. While some exercises may cause mild discomfort, our therapists prioritize your comfort and adjust interventions to minimize discomfort and maximize effectiveness.
  • Will insurance cover physical therapy?
    Most insurance plans cover physical therapy treatments. We provide guidance to verify your benefits and coverage.
  • Can physical therapy help me avoid surgery?
    Yes, in many cases, a structured physical therapy program effectively manages pain and restores function, potentially eliminating or delaying the need for surgery.

 American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)