Before a rehabilitation program can begin, it is essential the injured joints be in proper alignment and all muscles, ligaments and attachments be in their original place, as much as is possible. Injuries are very traumatic, some more than others. The two injuries that occur most often are to the knees and spine. The spinal cord is part of the central nervous system and carries the activation signals from the brain to the various parts of the body. Damage to the spinal cord will result in reduced mobility, feeling and often paralysis. Rehabilitating the effects of that type of injury depend on the level of trauma and the mental or psychological impact.

A knee injury involves joints and muscles. The treating and healing of the weakened surrounding muscles and the alignment is necessary before a treatment program can be initiated. On one side of the knee, the muscles may be stronger or healthier than the other, making physical therapy difficult. A good rehabilitation agenda would include exercising the target joint or area and stabilizing for maximum proper alignment to help restore function.

In both spinal and knee injuries, specific therapeutic exercises are prescribed; range of motion, flexibility, strength and endurance is the primary goal. This is accomplished by utilizing massage therapy, ultrasounds, needle electromyography, heat application, cold packs and mechanical equipment, combined with prescribed relaxing medication. Some of the common conditions that require rehabilitation include chronic pain management. This treatment is achieved through a multidisciplinary approach involving psychologists as well as physical manipulation. In addition, other professionals such as speech therapists and recreational therapists may be used to achieve the desired physical rehabilitation results.

Rehabilitation of any injury must include both physical and mental healing to gain functional restoration of a person affected by a physical disability.