Skip to Main Content
Skip to Main Content

Physical Therapy

physical therapists working with client on parallel bars

Physical Therapy: Improving the Ability to Move and Function

Our physical therapists treat individuals of all ages who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives. Physical therapy is offered in the clinic and in our warm-water pools (see Pool Physical Therapy page for details).

Physical therapists evaluate individuals and develop a plan of care using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function and prevent disability.  We also work with individuals to determine appropriate assistive devices such as walking aides, wheelchairs and other adapted equipment needs. 

Specialty Areas within Physical Therapy

Biofeedback: These techniques teach patients to improve their health by using signals from their own bodies, such as muscle tension and body temperature. Although biofeedback has many uses in rehabilitation, it is currently being used to increase a person’s ability to relax and increase their sense of control of pain for patients in our inpatient Chronic Pain Rehabilitation Program and outpatient therapy services.

Functional Capacity Evaluation: This one- or two-day comprehensive evaluation measures a client's functional capacity as it relates to returning to work. Capacities measured typically include: lifting, sitting, standing, pushing/pulling, kneeling and reaching. See Occupational Therapy for related services.

LSVT BIG: Recently principles of LSVT LOUD, a speech therapy, were applied to limb movement in people with Parkinson's Disease as LSVT BIG and have been documented to be effective. The BIG program is used to improve major motor skills to improve things like walking, limb movement and balance.  Courage Center offers LSVT BIG at the Golden Valley (763.520.0312), Stillwater (651.439.8283), and Forest Lake (651.464.5235) locations.

Wheelchair Positioning and Mobility Clinic: Courage Center has physical therapists who specialize in wheelchair seating and positioning. These therapists provide a comprehensive assessment and work closely with the client, vendors, and physician to determine what type of wheelchair and seating system will best meet your needs. We also help children and adults improve their skills in maneuvering a wheelchair on a variety of terrain and around various obstacles.

Additional Specialty Areas Include: