PHYSICAL THERAPY
Vic Kennel, P.T.
Vic Kennel has been a physical therapist for over 33 years. He is a graduate of the University of Nebraska. He practiced in Nebraska for 17 years as Director of Physical Therapy for two hospitals as well as being in private practice. He moved to Longview, Texas in 1990 and worked as the Director of Rehab Services at Good Shepherd Medical Center for 15 years.
Vic’s many years of experience enable him to treat all types orthopedic problems with particular expertise in joint manipulation.
Victor is married to Wanda, who works as a substance abuse counselor. They have five children and six grandchildren.
Why Physical Therapy Helps
Physical therapy is the treatment of a disease or condition by physical or mechanical means, such as through exercise, heat, or electrical stimulus. A physical therapist provides these treatments and will also provide education, instruction, and support for recovery.
The purpose of physical therapy is to decrease pain and allow a gradual return to normal activities. Physical therapy can reduce pain in the soft tissues (such as the muscles, ligaments, and tendons), improve function, and build muscle strength. A doctor or physical therapist will design a program specific to a person's normal level of activity, physical fitness, and severity of pain.
Physical therapy techniques may include:
- Stretching to reduce stress on joints.
- Manual therapy to improve or maintain range of motion.
- Heat therapy to improve blood circulation to the muscles and other soft tissues.
- Ice therapy to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
- Exercise to strengthen muscles.