Physical Therapy at Bella Vista Health Center
At the Bella Vista Health Center Physical Therapy Department, we provide evidence-based, outcome-driven services and therapy programs that are designed to relieve pain, restore function and enhance health.
Our Rehab patients benefit from our individual patient-centered approach that truly focuses on each person’s needs. These customized, one-on-one sessions provide an environment of healing and well-being for high-quality, comforting care.
In-House Physical Therapy programs
Our therapy programs are completely customizable to meet each patient’s unique needs. Following an initial evaluation, our experienced physical therapists develop an individualized treatment program that patients can easily attend to at home. Physical Therapy works to improve joint mobility and manage pain.
Long-Term Care Physical Therapy
Physical therapy in a long-term care setting can address current medical issues and prevent future issues from occurring. Specialized exercise programs help residents with conditions such as arthritis and Parkinson’s disease maximize functioning and independence. Those with mobility issues can improve their balance and gait, and residents who use wheelchairs can strengthen key muscles and optimize their range of motion. Even if a resident does not have specific mobility issues, participating in moderate physical therapy exercises can help maintain current levels of mobility and balance, and prevent degeneration.
Physical Therapy Exercises for the Elderly
Many physical effects of aging, including mobility issues, poor muscle strength, decreased balance, and diminished eyesight all increase the risk of falling, which can lead to serious medical outcomes among the elderly. Physical therapy not only improves mobility, strength, and balance to aid independence, but it can also help prevent falls in the future. Some of the exercises and therapy methods common for elderly residents of long-term care facilities include:
Stretching
Walking
Strength training
Active resistance exercises
Joint mobilization
Soft tissue mobilization
Biofeedback
Muscle tension feedback
Posture education
Body mechanics education
Pain management techniques
Manual therapy
Regular physical therapy exercises in a long-term care facility can also reduce the need for assistance with eating, bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene, improving residents’ overall independence and quality of life.
Physical Therapy Treatments
Therapeutic Modalities and other equipment
The Bella Vista Health Center Physical Therapy Department uses the latest technological advancements in pain management. Below are some of the treatments we employ for patients suffering from physical discomfort and pain.
1. Therapeutic Ultrasound - a treatment modality commonly used in Physical Therapy. It provides deep heating to soft tissues in the body such as muscles, tendons, joints, and ligaments.
2. Electrical Stimulation (IFC/ TENS) - is a therapeutic treatment that applies electrical stimulation to treat muscle spasms and pain. It can help prevent the atrophy of muscles and build muscle strength in patients with injuries. It is also helpful in keeping muscles active, especially after any type of spinal cord injury or strokes.
3. Hot and Cold Packs - alternating heat and cold can ease discomfort in muscles and joints.
4. Biodex - is a specialized piece of equipment that tests your balance and is designed to help improve your balance as well.
Physical Therapy Techniques to improve balance and endurance
In order to achieve a full recovery, patients are paired with a program that works to train and build muscle. Each exercise and technique is practiced in slow increments with a therapist’s supervision to avoid injury or strain. Programs include:
1. Fall prevention and balance re-training programs.
2. Stability exercises using weights, Nu-step recumbent step bikes and Move-Mor lower body trainers.
3. Risk of fall assessment testing using standardized tests and Biodex.
4. Core strengthening program - Exercises to promote the ability to control your trunk, which is a key in maintaining balance during your daily activities.
5. Functional Activity Training - Functional balance exercises designed to promote safe independent activities of daily living.
6. Obstacle Negotiation Program - Exercises to promote safe negotiation of obstacles in the environment (curbs, stairs, inclines, uneven surfaces, etc.).
7. Gait Training/Ambulation Program – both indoors and outdoors over varied surfaces.
8. Static Balance training - while standing stationary with eyes open as well as closed, bending to pick up objects off the floor, reaching outside of one’s base of support and turning in small places.
9. Dynamic Balance Training - stepping around and over obstacles and negotiating stairs.
Customized Treatment For Nursing Home Physical Therapy
Every resident of a nursing home or skilled nursing facility has their own individual medical conditions and physical limitations, which is why long-term care physical therapy is customized to each person. The first step in crafting an individualized treatment plan is a full physical assessment, including the measurement of range of motion, muscle force, muscle reflex activity, sensation, balance, and posture. Therapy plans can be altered and adjusted as needed in order to better reach goals and optimize strength and independence.
If you or a loved one is looking for a long-term care facility that offers physical therapy and a wide range of rehabilitative programs and amenities, Bella Vista Health Center can help. We offer short- and long-term physical therapy programs at our 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility in San Diego, as well as essential services, social opportunities, and round-the-clock care from a compassionate staff committed to providing a nurturing environment for all residents. For more information or to schedule a tour, call us at (619) 644-1000.
