Physical therapy clinic rehabilitates Airmen, increases mission mobility Published July 2, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Mariah Haddenham 36th Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- The Airmen of the 36th Medical Operations Squadron Physical Therapy Clinic serve as a focal point for physical rehabilitative services to help members of Team Andersen recover from injuries and return to the mission as soon as possible. The clinic, located at the Coral Reef Fitness Center, serves approximately 23 patients per day to improve the quality of life for people experiencing discomfort as a result of chronic or acute musculoskeletal pain or impact injuries. The most common injuries and ailments treated by physical therapy include joint pain, arthritis, sports injuries and post-operative conditions. "We are the first line of defense when you think of preventative healthcare for sport, work, home and even recreational injuries," said Tech. Sgt. Robert Alvarado, 36th MDOS NCO in charge of physical therapy. A patient must be referred by their primary care provider before beginning a physical therapy regimen. Then a physical therapist will evaluate a patient's components of movement including strength, range of motion, flexibility, balance, posture, body mechanics, coordination, endurance and general mobility. After evaluation, the therapist will pass on the patient's specific treatment program to the clinic technician administering the treatment to the patient ensuring they are educated about the cause of their condition. The technicians will also provide written instruction for exercises a patient can do on their own to improve function. "The most important part of therapy is getting to know your patients," said Capt. William Garlisi, 36th MDOS physical therapy officer in charge. "Each person has a different reason for coming in, but overall they all want to get better and move on with their lives. Once you are aware of your patient's goals, you can better assist them in achieving them." Initial evaluations by the physical therapist take approximately 40 minutes, with follow-up evaluations taking about half that time. A physical therapy treatment session with a technician usually take between 30 minutes to an hour, but can be extended so all patient needs are met and their questions are answered. "By supporting our Airmen's needs, we are supporting Andersen's mission and the mission of the Air Force," Alvarado said. "When a patient comes to us in pain, we help them heal. Airmen should be able to do their job without being in pain or at least know how to manage their pain. It doesn't matter if you sit at a desk all day with chronic back pain or work on the flightline with tendonitis, you are supporting the mission and we are here to help you do that to best of your ability."