Physical Therapy News, Treatments and Services – November 09, 2025

Physical therapy plays a vital role in promoting strength, function, and independence amongst patients with varying health conditions. Among these illnesses, people diagnosed with cancer at any age can significantly benefit from physical therapy during and after their cancer treatment. Physical therapists address problems related to weakness, balance, scar tissue, lymphedema, range of motion, and the use of rehabilitation equipment.

Patients interested in scheduling a physical therapy appointment with the Fred Hutch clinic need to be referred by a Fred Hutch physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner. The physical therapy clinic, located on the fourth floor of the Sloan Clinic, extends its expertise to patients who have secondary lymphedema, offering services from physical therapists specializing in oncology.

In another perspective, the UT Health East Texas Rehabilitation Center offers inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs aimed at helping individuals regain mobility and function after a serious illness, injury, or surgery. Among the wide range of services provided, the center offers hemodialysis treatment, occupational therapy, physical therapy, aquatics therapy, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, and a specialized Parkinson’s disease program under both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services.

The inpatient rehabilitation program encompasses a variety of services including diagnostic and laboratory services, hemodialysis services, limb loss rehabilitation, occupational therapy, pastoral care, physical therapy, psychology services, rehabilitation medicine and nursing, respiratory therapy, speech therapy, stroke rehabilitation, transitional living apartments, VitalStim therapy, and wound care services. Located on the third and fourth floors of the UT Health East Texas Rehabilitation Center, this wing includes transitional living apartments, centralized workstations, therapy gyms, dining rooms, and state-of-the-art equipment for neurological and orthopedic patients.

Concurrently, the center’s outpatient rehab services include aquatic therapy, balance and vestibular programs, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, dry needling, limb loss rehabilitation, lymphedema management, occupational therapy, orthotic therapy, a Parkinson’s disease program, physical therapy, speech therapy, splinting services, total joint replacement therapy, and work conditioning.

Aquatic therapy, for instance, is used for progressive strengthening, pain reduction, chronic pain management, and reduced gravity therapy. The balance and vestibular program offers assessments to assist patients experiencing dizziness, disequilibrium, vertigo, or related symptoms, with programs designed to manage and reduce these symptoms.

Furthermore, the limb loss rehabilitation program focuses on helping patients regain function, mobility, and independence after an amputation. This includes personalized therapy plans, prosthetic training, pain management, and emotional support. Lymphedema specialists, too, play a critical part in assisting patients to manage chronic and progressive conditions.

Orthotic therapy provides treatments for a wide array of health issues such as orthopedic disabilities, hand injuries, occupational injuries, neurological dysfunction, arthritic conditions, and cognitive deficits. The Parkinson’s program, on the other hand, aims to cultivate functional mobility, minimize potential impairments and the progression of the disease, and provide safety education.

Realizing the importance of recovery both physically and psychologically, individualized physical therapy is offered to restore strength, resilience, and endurance, while speech therapy assists in overcoming difficulties with communication, thought organization, and swallowing problems. Splinting and total joint replacement therapy services are also offered as part of the comprehensive rehabilitation plan.

In conclusion, whether a patient needs inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation services, a physical therapist plays a pivotal role. From helping cancer patients to regain strength, aiding limb amputation patients in their journey to independence, to aiding patients in recovering their motor skills, speech, and cognitive functions after a stroke, physical therapists provide an indispensable service in the healthcare sector. As such, an interdisciplinary approach involving communication and collaboration within the healthcare team leads to holistic and effective treatment plans for patients, enhancing their overall quality of life.

Physical therapy services and treatments have seen significant advancements in recent years, aiding in the recovery journey of people from all walks of life, from injured veterans to young athletes. They have become invaluable tools for managing pain, restoring mobility, and improving patients’ quality of life.

One pioneering program making waves in physical therapy services is the Physical Therapy Integration Pilot Program at Windward Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC). Led by Grant Tong, a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist in physical therapy, the program aims to integrate direct access to physical therapy into onsite primary care appointments.

Tong mentions how this integration will benefit veterans, who often struggle with musculoskeletal complaints, injuries, and mobility limitations. A direct access Physical Therapy accessible during primary care visits could mean skipping the usual referral process, potentially saving time, healthcare costs, and improving care experience.

The program, despite being limited due to space considerations, offers substantial onsite physical therapy support during primary care appointments. Plans for further reorganizations may allow program expansions. The goal is to eliminate barriers to care, reduce wait times, and enable veterans to have efficient access to physical therapy services.

This program also aligns with the Veterans Affairs’ push towards “Whole Health”, a holistic approach to healthcare that accounts for health coaching, spiritual and cultural considerations, complimentary treatments, and lifestyle alterations for overall wellbeing enhancement. Physical therapy services hence become vital tools to improve veterans’ ability to enjoy activities they love, from Pickleball to gardening.

Another groundbreaking innovation in physical therapy services is seen in the HSS Pediatric Rehabilitation & Young Athlete Center in New York City. The facility aims to cater to the specific rehabilitation needs of children and young adults.

The facility is staffed by a dynamic multidisciplinary team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists specializing in neurodevelopmental, orthopedic, and sports rehabilitation. Young athletes benefit from tailored programs that combine clinical expertise in rehabilitation with advanced technology and equipment aimed at enhancing sports performance and minimizing injury risks.

For infants and toddlers in need of developmental services, the center provides a dedicated space to work on motor skills, functional abilities, balance, and coordination. The facility hosts specialized physical therapy gyms and an occupational therapy gym with a climbing wall, age-specific sensory equipment, and a fine-motor hand therapy space. The center’s private speech therapy rooms offer SMART Board™ access for patients needing language and communication therapy. They also address feeding and swallowing impairments.

The HSS Pediatric Rehabilitation & Young Athlete Center adopts a kid-centric approach where a holistic and fun experience is key. Communication and consultation with every member of a child’s care team are a priority. The center offers a range of services, from consultation to intensive programs that are personalized based on a therapist’s assessment and treatment plan.

Given the promising developments in physical therapy services, it’s clear that they will continue to play a critical role in healthcare in the future by enriching patients’ lives and facilitating superior recovery journeys.

Sanford Health West Fargo has recently begun to offer physical therapy services, contributing to crucial patient rehabilitation processes. The health center provides the possibility of personalized treatment with a professional physical therapist. The physical therapists are skilled in the evaluation, treatment, and prevention of mobility injuries and disorders, assisting patients with safe recovery and mobility reinstatement.

David Tompkins, Sanford Health’s lead physical therapist, has expressed excitement over offering their services to the community, amplifying patient recovery, and facilitating a return to normal life. The Sanford Physical Therapy team specializes in numerous services and therapies such as dizziness and imbalance treatment, dry needling, LSVT BIG treatment for Parkinson’s, lymphedema therapy, orthopedic care, pain management, postoperative services, stroke rehabilitation, and women’s health care. These services provided by the Sanford West Fargo location are available Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In addition to Sanford Health’s services, Mayo Clinic’s Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) offers restoration of movement and functionality to people limited by disease or injury. PM&R physicians diagnose and treat a variety of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and the musculoskeletal system, providing unique treatment reflective of each patient’s needs, abilities, and objectives.

The therapies provided by the PM&R teams are intended to help patients regain the best options for their quality of life, maintain as much muscle ability as possible, re-train mental pathways, and reach the best possible capability given their specific needs. The rehabilitation experts are experienced in reviewing medical images, performing physical examinations of bones, joints, and muscles, and aiding patients in creating a health plan.

Mayo Clinic PM&R has a competitive edge with its bone, muscle, and soft tissue therapies, gaming and Esports Medicine, adaptive athlete medicine, and Pediatric Rehabilitation. Located across Mayo Clinic’s campuses, PM&R specialists are set to heighten the recovery process through either short-term or long-term care programs. The multidisciplinary team of experts works with patients to help ensure a complete and timely recovery.

Mayo Clinic PM&R consists of expert physicians, therapists, and advanced practice providers who take part in research, teamwork, and continuing education. These professionals provide state-of-the-art medical treatments and nonsurgical options for a range of functional limitations. The treatments include physical modalities like custom orthotics and ultrasound and manual therapy to enhance movement and healing.

The clinic also focuses on improving assistance and restorative technology, with therapy and testing procedures using advanced technology available in the Assistive and Restorative Technology Laboratory (ART Lab) and other PM&R facilities. These include 3D computer technology and printing for hand/wrist braces in Minnesota and Florida, assistive technology for spinal cord injury, walking assessment in the Motion Analysis Laboratory, functional electrical stimulation, assistive technology consultations for different conditions, and advanced prosthetic options for people with amputations.

Clinical research forms a key part of PM&R’s goal of offering optimal patient care with potential clinical trials for qualified patients. Mayo Clinic’s locations in Arizona, Florida, and Rochester, Minnesota coordinate closely with a multidisciplinary team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other rehabilitation professionals. By doing so, they deliver patient-centered care efficiently.

These services extend across Mayo Clinic Health System locations in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa, attesting to the expansive reach of their physical therapy services and treatments.

North America

Europe

Asia-Pacific

Latin America

Middle East & Africa

According to recent data, the global physical therapy market is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. It’s projected to increase from USD 27.95 billion in 2026 to USD 49.18 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.32% within that period. Factors influencing this growth trend include a heightened awareness of musculoskeletal health, a growing elderly population, and the increasing need for rehabilitation services following injury or surgery.

Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming integral to the evolution of physical rehabilitation services. AI-powered platforms can monitor patient progress in real-time, anticipate recovery timelines, and adapt therapy programs accordingly. These technologies could greatly reduce the need for constant in-person supervision and promote more personalized, efficient rehabilitation strategies.

There are also several key trends emerging within the market. Telehealth technologies are facilitating remote consultations, assessments, and therapy sessions, improving accessibility and adherence to programs. Additionally, wearable technologies and smart devices are integrating into rehabilitation protocols, providing therapists with continuous data on patients’ biomechanical and physiological responses.

The global physical therapy market’s growth is driven by several factors. Increasing incidences of chronic conditions like arthritis and stroke due to an aging population, coupled with a rise in health consciousness after the pandemic, are leading to a greater demand for these services. Moreover, technology continues to advance within the field, with developments such as AI integration, virtual reality environments, and robotic systems improving therapy effectiveness and patient engagement.

There are some challenges to this market, including the shortage of skilled practitioners and the high costs for advanced equipment and therapy. However, emerging markets, particularly in developing economies where healthcare infrastructure is rapidly advancing, present opportunities for growth.

Market segments have seen various patterns; for example, within age groups, the adult segment has driven market growth due to the prevalence of musculoskeletal issues and occupational injuries. By contrast, the elderly segment is also growing quickly due to an aging global population and associated healthcare concerns.

In terms of regions, North America has the largest market share due to its established healthcare infrastructure and awareness about physical rehabilitation. However, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to expand at the highest CAGR in future years.

Prominent players in the market include companies like AmeriCare Physical Therapy, Rehab Alternatives PLLC, PIVOT Physical Therapy, ProHealth Limited, and DJO LLC.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Services

The rehabilitation team at UT Health Pittsburg is committed to providing comprehensive rehabilitation services for optimal patient recovery from various medical conditions. Their services are particularly beneficial for those with cardiopulmonary problems and neurological conditions. As a leading provider of rehabilitative care, their specialized programs aim to improve mobility and balance while increasing strength and endurance.

Their expertise extends to management of orthopedic pain and recovery from joint replacement surgeries. With effective outpatient rehabilitation services, UT Health Pittsburg strives to enhance patient independence, quality of life, and overall health status.

Outpatient Rehab Services

The therapists at UT Health Pittsburg personalize treatments to minimize pain, restore function, and enhance quality of life for patients with a wide range of medical conditions. These include balance disorders, joint pain, cardiopulmonary diseases, and neurological conditions such as stroke.

The latest techniques in physical therapy are used to achieve diverse objectives, from controlling shortness of breath to preventing, decreasing, or eliminating pain. Additionally, patient education is emphasized to prevent the worsening of symptoms. UT Health likewise offers Cardiac Rehabilitation—a medically supervised program designed to strengthen the heart, enhance cardiovascular health, and support recovery after a heart event.

At-Home Rehabilitation

UT Health Pittsburg collaborates with Choice Health At Home to provide exceptional in-home medical care. They offer various services, from physical therapy and rehabilitation to hospice care. Given the familiarity and comfort of one’s home, the in-home services aim to provide a broad spectrum of high-quality care.

Olympic Fitness Centers

The UT Health East Texas Olympic Centers offer a variety of fitness classes, personal training, and customized fitness programs. With expert guidance and first-rate facilities, they aim to enhance public wellness, exercise regimens, and overall health status. The fitness centers, open to the public, are staffed by trained professionals offering a medically integrated approach to fitness.

Swing Bed Program

The Swing Bed Program at UT Health Pittsburg is a unique initiative allowing patients to stay in the hospital while transitioning from an acute hospitalization back to the community. Designed to short-term rehabilitative services and/or less intensive medical care. The program provides high quality inpatient and outpatient services, with a healthcare complex designed to meet patient and family needs.

Various services under this program include a 24-hour physician-staffed emergency department, equipped laboratory and radiology departments, gastroenterology, general and gynecology surgery, IV antibiotic therapy, nutrition therapy, pain management, palliative care, and physical, occupational, and respiratory therapy.

UT Health East Texas Physicians host clinics situated in Pittsburg, accommodating specialists in a wide array of disciplines like cardiology, neurology, pulmonology, podiatry, pain management, orthopedics, and ear, nose, and throat care.

Eligibility for the Swing Bed Program extends to patients who have completed at least a three-day stay as an acute care patient, those in need of ongoing monitoring and rehabilitative care, and patients with Medicare as their primary insurance.

The length of stay in the program varies depending on patient needs, but typically ranges from one to two weeks, rarely exceeding three weeks. Upon the end of a patient’s swing bed stay, post-hospital living situation plans are laid out, with services such as home healthcare and outpatient therapy made available if needed.

Effective rehabilitation through diverse service offerings ensure that patients receive comprehensive, quality care at UT Health Pittsburg. Whether it’s via outpatient therapy, at-home care, personalized exercise programs, or their innovative Swing Bed program, the medical team proves dedicated to enhancing patient well-being and improving the quality of life. Contact UT Health Pittsburg to learn more about their offerings.