Is Physical Therapy the Right Choice?
Physical therapy aims to relieve pain, restore movement and function, avoid surgery, improve quality of life, and prevent future injuries.
Physical therapy is a non-invasive method to evaluate, assess, and treat people with limited mobility and physical function due to an injury, disability, or medical health condition. Physical therapy aims to relieve pain, restore movement and function, avoid surgery, improve quality of life, and prevent future injuries. Physical therapy is performed by trained, qualified, and licensed physical therapists who are movement experts and use different techniques and treatment modalities to help an individual live a better life and regain maximum independence.
Physical therapy benefits people of all ages. Some states allow patients to visit physical therapists directly without any referral from a primary doctor. However, several people remain clueless about when to go to a physical therapist or if it is the right choice for their condition. Let's discuss when to consult a physical therapist:
Lingering pain
If there is consistent pain in the neck, hand, shoulder, back, or other parts even after taking proper rest or applying ice packs, it is time to consult a physical therapist. A professional can address the pain affecting the ability to move, exercise, or function normally. After the assessment, the physical therapist can create a custom plan to overcome the pain and discomfort.
Chronic or acute pain
While minor pain is treatable through rest or other methods, sharp or chronic pain resulting from a muscle strain or underlying injury left unaddressed needs expert care. Physical therapy can provide long-term relief and improve strength and mobility to treat pain where pain medication has proved ineffective.
Treat or prevent injury
Physical therapy is beneficial in treating injuries related to accidents and sports, restricting a person's ability to move or live a normal life. For traumatic, sudden injuries, experts recommend seeking assistance from a physical therapist as soon as possible to prevent the condition from worsening. A physical therapist also provides preventative care to help avoid injuries associated with sports, gym, poor posture, and incorrect movements.
Prevent a surgery or post-surgery rehabilitation
While surgery is unavoidable in some conditions, there are several instances where physical therapy has successfully treated patients and avoided surgeries. Some patients require pre-surgical PT to ensure swifter recovery and better outcomes post-operation. Physical therapy is also helpful in post-op rehabilitation. The physical therapy may begin the same day after surgery and continue for 6 to 12 months, depending on the condition. Whether a person undergoes orthopedic, cardiac, abdominal, thoracic, or neurological surgery, physical therapy can speed up recovery, manage pain, regain motion, minimize scar tissue, and restore strength.
Manage age-related issues
As a person ages, they risk losing muscle mass, strength, and balance and developing joint pain or arthritis. Physical therapy is valuable in addressing issues people experience as they get older. A physical therapist can suggest a few modifications and adjustments for preventing common age-related problems. In addition, a PT can help develop confidence in aging individuals and avoid risk and fall injuries.
Explore physical therapy
Physical therapy is an effective treatment for several conditions and helps people enjoy a healthy, active, and normal life. It is also valuable as a preventative measure to avoid pain and injury and can help spot issues before they cause a problem. Please feel free to speak with an experienced physical therapist for more information.
Liberated Rehabilitation is a mobile physical therapy service in the Phoenix metro area specializing in fully personalized in-home physical therapy. We provide tailored physical therapy in the home or work setting for faster, better recovery. Call (602)755-2276 to schedule an appointment.
