Physical therapy benefits people of all ages and medical conditions that limit mobility. An individualized therapy program can help people return to their prior level of function, reduce or prevent future injury, and improve overall health. Many physicians refer their patients for physical therapy first as a primary way to conservatively approach and manage problems. Here are the top 5 reasons to choose physical therapy first.
1. Reduce or eliminate pain.
Physical therapy provides the opportunity to reduce or eliminate pain through specific therapeutic exercises and manual therapy techniques, such as joint and soft tissue mobilization, to restore normal joint mechanics to support and help heal injured tissues. Modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and taping techniques can also reduce pain during recovery.
2. Avoid or recover from surgery.
In many cases, if attending physical therapy first can address the reasons contributing to your pain, you may be able to avoid surgery altogether. If you do need surgery, pre-surgery physical therapy can improve mobility and strength, and help get you in better condition. Making it easier to recover from surgery with postoperative physical therapy more quickly and with better outcomes.
We know a full recovery starts before your surgery even happens. That’s why we’re with you from the beginning to the end. You can book an appointment without needing a referral from your doctor. And we can work with your doctors to develop a pre-surgery and a post-surgery plan. If you are scheduled for elective surgery, we will work closely with our surgery partners to ensure you achieve the best possible recovery. Many times, this includes pre-rehabilitation.
3. Improve mobility.
If you have difficulty with standing, walking, or transitioning, exercises to improve flexibility and strength can improve your ability, making everyday activities more enjoyable. Physical therapists can also instruct and fit you for an assistive device such as a cane, crutches, or other assistive devices designed to improve your mobility.
4. Prevent or recover from a sports-related injury.
Physical therapists understand how muscle imbalances and joint or soft tissue restrictions can increase the risk of a sports-related injury. They can design a program for your particular sport to address and reduce potential risk factors. If you have a sports-related injury, from competitive league play or weekend warrior, physical therapists can help you recover to return to your specific sport more rapidly.
5. Improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.
As we age, our risk of falling increases. Physical therapists can identify if you are a high risk for falls, and factors including muscle weaknesses, coordination, and proprioception deficits that can lead to falls can be improved with specific exercises. Sometimes the source of loss of balance is related to the vestibular system (certain types of dizziness and vertigo). These can be addressed with certain movements and exercises to restore vestibular function and reduce the risk of falls.
We are here to assist you in moving toward greater function by understanding your specific condition or injury. We will provide you with an individualized program to manage your condition and put you on the path to better health. Choose physical therapy first and contact us to schedule a free assessment today!
