When the body fails to function properly, medical professionals typically order diagnostic procedures or testing to determine the cause of any adverse symptoms. Once a cause is identified, therapeutic procedures — medical interventions designed to restore health — can be performed. These techniques are systematic processes backed by extensive research that help the body return to normal. In other words, therapeutic procedures are the various methods of care that help the body to heal so an individual can regain optimal health.
The types of therapeutic procedures applied in any given case are based upon the ailment, injury, or illness causing the body to function below par, and are most effective when an individual’s overall health, including pre-existing medical conditions, is taken into consideration. For example, allergies to certain medications can impede the forward progress of fighting off an infectious disease, especially when allergy-inducing medications are dispensed. This can cause additional health concerns, and in some instances life-threatening conditions.
Therapeutic procedures, however, are not limited to the administration of proper medications. These methods may also include holistic approaches in which the goal is to correct an ailment and optimize overall health. An example of this type of therapeutic program can be used in the treatment of cancer patients. In many instances, these include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments, or a combination of any of the three, plus techniques to improve the overall quality of life. This can incorporate such things as psychotherapy and stress management to relieve anxiety, tension, and fears, factors acknowledged to aid in the general decline of overall health.
Therapeutic procedures may also include such things as pain management strategies to help individuals overcome the physical dysfunction often associated with moderate to severe pain issues. Physical therapy is another form of therapeutic procedures that helps individuals regain general function, mobility, and strength. Modalities — the devices used to relieve pain or induce the muscles to contract during physical therapy — can help increase overall movement. Occupational therapy, on the other hand, can assist in the recovery of day-to-day abilities such as fine motor skills.
While some patients require short term treatment with therapeutic procedures, others require long term or ongoing support; duration of treatment is also dependent upon the nature, cause, and general effects of the medical condition affecting the body. Injuries typically require a therapeutic program for a few weeks or several months before normal activities can resume uninhibited. Chronic or long-standing conditions may warrant ongoing or frequent sessions over time when symptoms flair-up.