Physical Therapy and Orthopedic Services

The physical therapy/ortho department evaluates and provides treatments for a variety of problems including pre/post-operative care, chronic or acute injuries to the spine, muscles and joints.

Physical Therapy Services

Physical therapy services are provided by licensed physical therapists who work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans. These plans may include:

1. Evaluation and Assessment: A thorough evaluation to identify the underlying causes of pain, limited mobility, or other functional limitations.
2. Exercise Programs: Customized exercises to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and range of motion.
3. Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, such as massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue mobilization, to promote relaxation, reduce pain, and improve tissue mobility.
4. Modalities: The use of various modalities, such as heat, cold, electrical stimulation, therapeutic dry needling, and battlefield acupuncture to reduce pain, inflammation, and promote healing.
5. Education and Training: Patient education on pain neuroscience education, proper body mechanics, posture, and movement techniques to prevent future injuries and promote optimal function.

Orthopedic Services

Orthopedic services offered at WACH vary throughout the calendar year. During NTC rotation, backfill surgeons are available to provide urgent and select routine care in support of rotational soldiers who sustain an injury, as well as WACH beneficiaries with acute or chronic orthopedic concerns.

Outside of rotation, WACH orthopedics can provide the following services for those with active orthopedics referrals:

1. Non-Surgical Services: Non-surgical treatments, such as injections and bracing, to manage chronic conditions and promote healing.
2. Fracture Care: Treatment to include casting and bracing.
3. Coordinate Care: Coordinates with nearby military treatment facilities and network providers to provide orthopedic care exceeding WACH ortho capabilities.

Conditions Treated

Physical therapy and orthopedic services are available for a wide range of conditions, including:

1. Musculoskeletal Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears of muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
2. Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other types of arthritis.
3. Back and Neck Pain: Chronic and acute back and neck pain, including herniated discs and spinal stenosis.
4. Joint Pain: Pain and stiffness in the hips, knees, shoulders, and other joints.
5. Sports Injuries: Injuries sustained during sports and fitness activities, such as ACL tears, and shin splints.

Referrals and Authorizations

Referrals are required for physical therapy and orthopedic services. Patients with acute injuries evaluated at WACH’s emergency department or sick call may receive an acute referral slip for physical therapy. Patients with non-acute injuries should contact their primary care manager to receive a routine referral to physical therapy and/or orthopedics.

Virtual Resources

Here you'll find video tutorials of WACH PT's "Let's Move, Mojave" classes. These videos are a great virtual resource for current patients participating in the classes, former patients needing a quick refresher, or anyone looking to incorporate new skills and exercises into their workout routines.

Yoga Flow Videos

Move Better, Feel Better with WACH Flow!  Explore our Flow Class Playlist for a variety of videos designed to improve your mobility and flexibility. From full-body flows to region-specific routines, we've got something for everyone!

WACH PT Group Classes

Rebuild Strength & Confidence with WACH Rehab! Our classes provide a structured path to recovery and optimal function:

• Region-specific: Foundation building for lower body, upper body, and core.
• Ready Class: Bridge the gap with integrated strength and movement.
• Return to Run/Sport: Advanced training for safe, successful return to activity.

Rx3

Rx3 is a guide to help rehab and recover from musculoskeletal injuries, ultimately improving overall health and physical fitness.