The Benefits of Physical Therapy at the Pain Center of Rhode Island

Physical therapy (PT) is a crucial component of our comprehensive approach to healthcare, helping individuals recover from injuries, manage chronic pain, and improve overall mobility. At the Pain Center of Rhode Island, we provide expert physical therapy integrated with regenerative medicine, sports medicine, and shockwave therapy. Our in-house physical therapist, Sheila Maguire MSPT, develops customized treatment plans to help patients regain strength, flexibility, and confidence in their movements.

Have specific questions? Feel free to schedule a call with our staff. They will help you understand your pain, explore our treatments, and access priority scheduling with Dr Cherubini. You can also call our office at 401-648-6100

What Is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is a healthcare specialty aimed at restoring function, reducing pain, and improving overall movement. It involves various techniques, including:

Strengthening exercises
Flexibility training
Manual therapy
Postural correction
Patient education on injury prevention and rehabilitation

At The Pain Center of Rhode Island, we believe that physical therapy is not just about treating pain—it’s about empowering patients to take control of their health and maintain long-term well-being.

Who Needs Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy benefits a wide range of individuals, including those experiencing:

Acute or chronic pain in the back, shoulders, neck, knees, or hips.
Injuries from sports, work-related activities, or accidents.
Post-surgical recovery, such as joint replacements, spinal surgeries, and orthopedic procedures.
Repetitive strain injuries from prolonged sitting, poor posture, or overuse.
Neurological disorders like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis.
Balance and coordination issues that increase the risk of falls.
Degenerative conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis.

How to Prepare for Physical Therapy

To ensure a smooth experience, follow these steps:

Obtain a Referral: Speak with your doctor or schedule a consultation with our team.
Set Goals: Identify key objectives such as pain reduction, increased mobility, or strength improvement.
Bring Medical Records: Share any imaging results, past treatment history, and medical conditions.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Loose, breathable attire allows for easier movement during therapy.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps muscle recovery and enhances physical performance.
Ask Questions: Communicate any concerns and understand your personalized treatment plan.

What Should I Wear to Physical Therapy?

For the best experience, wear:

A loose-fitting t-shirt or tank top for upper body treatments.
Comfortable shorts or athletic pants for lower body exercises.
Supportive sneakers to provide stability during movement.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Physical Therapy

In-House Physical Therapy Services

At the Pain Center of Rhode Island, we offer physical therapy alongside our regenerative medicine and pain management services. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures a seamless collaboration between providers, creating an efficient and holistic treatment plan.

Meet Sheila Maguire

Sheila Maguire MSPT is an experienced physical therapist who specializes in pain management, injury recovery, and movement optimization. Her patient-centered approach integrates manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and lifestyle modifications to achieve the best results.

Examples of Individualized Treatment Plans

Work / Home-Related Pain

For patients suffering from repetitive motion injuries, we focus on pain relief and inflammation reduction with:

Manual therapy (massage, electrical stimulation, and heat/cold therapy)
Postural training to improve spinal alignment
Strength-building exercises for core and back muscles

Post-Surgical Recovery

Recovery programs focus on:

Progressive exercises to regain strength and mobility
Techniques to reduce scar tissue and inflammation
Strategies for returning to daily activities with confidence

Sports Injuries

For athletes and active individuals, we provide:

Functional movement training to prevent reinjury
Strength and conditioning programs
Biomechanical assessments to optimize performance

Chronic Pain Management

For conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and nerve pain, we implement:

Gentle stretching and joint mobilization
Pain-relief techniques including manual therapy
Home exercise programs for long-term relief

Common Strength and Flexibility Exercises in Physical Therapy

Beginner Level:

Gentle Stretches: Improves flexibility and reduces stiffness.
Core Stabilization: Strengthens muscles supporting the spine.
Postural Correction Exercises: Helps alleviate strain from poor ergonomics.

Mid-Level:

Resistance Band Work: Strengthens muscles and improves endurance.
Scapular Stabilization: Supports shoulder mobility and posture.
Balance Training: Enhances coordination and reduces fall risk.

Advanced Techniques:

Weight Training for Strength: Builds muscle to prevent injuries.
Plyometrics: Helps athletes regain explosive power.
Functional Training: Focuses on everyday movements to enhance mobility.

Best Tips from Sheila Maguire

Sheila shares these essential tips for maximizing physical therapy benefits:

Stay Consistent: Regular sessions and at-home exercises are key to recovery.
Listen to Your Body: Avoid pushing through pain and modify exercises as needed.
Make Ergonomic Adjustments: Improve workstation setup and daily habits to prevent strain.
Use Recovery Tools: Foam rollers, resistance bands, and massage balls can enhance therapy.
Practice Stress Management: Techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness support healing.

Best At-Home Exercises to Try

After consulting with your therapist, try these exercises:

Chin Tucks: Strengthens neck muscles and improves posture.
Bridges: Activates the glutes and stabilizes the lower back.
Shoulder Blade Squeezes: Enhances upper back strength.

Testimonials from Our Patients

Our patients have found great success through physical therapy at PCRI. Visit our Google Reviews page to hear about their experiences and recovery journeys.

Schedule an Evaluation Today

If you’re experiencing pain or mobility limitations, the Pain Center of Rhode Island is here to help. Schedule an evaluation today and let us design a personalized treatment plan to help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free.

401-648-6100