The ICU (Intensive Care Unit) is an area of the hospital that provides intensive treatment to patients who need it. When most people think of the ICU, they imagine patients bedridden and hooked up to an IV. While this picture is largely correct, it’s important for ICU patients to get up and move as they’re able. In this physical therapy education article, we’re going to discuss how a physical therapist can help patients in the ICU.
The Importance of Movement in the ICU
Movement is absolutely essential to a patient’s overall health and well-being. This holds true for everyone – whether you’re in the ICU, or at home. Staying in bed for long periods of time can decrease your strength and muscle mass.
Many ICU patients are very sick and end up lying in their hospital bed for days or weeks on end. While rest is an important part of recovery for many conditions, remaining sedentary for so long can have adverse effects on your health. That’s where physical therapy can help. A physical therapist can work with an ICU patient to determine the appropriate amount of exercises, stretches, or activities for their situation. Ultimately, this will keep the patient’s strength up as they recover and help prevent future complications from not moving.
Minnesota Physical Therapists
At OrthoRehab Specialists, we work with patients throughout the Twin Cities and help them improve motion and restore mobility. Our physical therapists offer direct access to physical therapy. That means any Minnesota patient can make an appointment with us regardless of whether or not they have a referral. With nearly thirty years of experience, we are also highly respected in the industry – with more than 600 local providers referring patients to us on a regular basis. To set up your appointment with one of our therapists, contact us at our Edina or Minneapolis clinics today!
PT of Costa Rican National Soccer Team for 2007 World Cup in Victoria, CAN. Clinical Instructor for University of Minnesota Doctor of Physical Therapy Affiliations
- 5 Cold Weather Health Conditions That Can Be Treated With Physical Therapy - December 11, 2024
- 4 Tips For Protecting Your Neck And Spine When Reading - December 9, 2024
- The Interpersonal Benefits Of Working With A Physical Therapist - December 3, 2024
