October is National Physical Therapy Month and last year’s theme was the promotion of physical activity and the unique value physical therapists and physical therapist assistants bring to help people get moving. So we are excitedly anticipating this year’s team. In the meantime, we want to help you and your loved ones understand more about physical therapy and its importance!
What is Physical Therapy?
According to the American Physical Therapy Association, physical therapy is a form of treatment that uses physical exercise to aid patients who are recovering from varying illnesses and injuries. Additionally, physical therapists are movement experts who can improve your quality of life. They do this by using prescribed exercises, hands-on care, and patient education.
Physical therapy is suitable for all genders, ages, and ethnicity. If your condition will prevent you from benefiting from physical therapy, your doctor or physical therapist will let you know.
Why is Physical Therapy Important?
There are several reasons why we should get physical therapy when the need arises, so let’s explore a few of those reasons.
- To Reduce or Treat Pain- numerous physical therapy exercises and patient education are meant to relieve pain. In fact, this may be the second most common reason why persons need to see a physical therapist. Some of these exercises may also prevent pain from reoccurring.
- To Improve Mobility– for persons who experience difficulty walking, running, standing, or just moving in general physical therapy is usually recommended. There are several exercises, including stretches that help to build and strengthen body structures like muscles and ligaments. This will help facilitate better and easier mobility. A physical therapist may also prescribe or recommend the use of an assistive device, such as a walker, cane, or crutches.
- Injury Recovery- this is possibly the most common reason people need physical therapy, especially athletes. Physical therapists can assess the damage done by certain accidents even in sports, so as to properly engage you in efficient exercises and education. This will have you up and about in the shortest time possible. Physical therapists can recommend regular exercises that will continue to help to improve function even after recovery.
We hope that you have gained some knowledge on how physical therapy can help you and your loved one. So try improving your quality of life, reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing functionality. Remember, anyone can benefit from physical therapy.