Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know to start your journey with physical therapy.
What is Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is designed for patients after an illness, surgery, or certain injuries to minimize pain and restore function and mobility by utilizing massage, exercise, and stretches to improve alignment and flexibility. Physical therapists offer a variety of practices to support your unique needs:
- Balance, coordination, endurance, flexibility, and strength training
- Blood flow restriction therapy
- Electrical stimulation (e-stim)
- Heat and cold therapy
- Hydrotherapy
- Manual therapy
- Massage
- Stretching
The Benefits of Physical Therapy
After putting in the time and effort through physical therapy, patients experience a variety of benefits:
- Improved mobility and movement through strength and balance exercises that promote fall prevention
- Improved posture that positively impacts your oxygen intake, body aches, and confidence
- Managed pain and risk of heart disease, lung disease, and age-related medical issues like arthritis
- Reduced need for prescription drugs, surgery, or lengthy recovery if physical therapy eliminates pain or heals the injury
- Reduced stress and improved mental health
- Strengthened bones, muscles, and pelvic floor
- Supported symptoms caused by neurological conditions, such as balance, coordination, and fatigue
When to Start Physical Therapy
People often start physical therapy after their healthcare provider diagnoses them with a condition or injury, such as:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Cerebral palsy
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Concussions
- Cystic fibrosis
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Muscular dystrophy
- Pain in the back, hips, knees, or neck
- Parkinson’s disease
- Pelvic floor problems
- Respiratory diseases
- Rotator cuff tears
- Spinal cord injuries
- Sports injuries
- Strokes
- Tendinitis
- Traumatic brain injuries
Next Steps for Physical Therapy
Patients typically begin their journey with physical therapy by:
- Starting Now: Don’t wait until the pain is chronic, more complex, or “bad enough.” If your pain is interfering with your lifestyle, such as getting enough sleep, that’s the right sign to seek help. Check if your insurance or state requires a referral from a doctor to see a physical therapist.
- Exploring Options: Look at how your Medicare or Medicaid plan supports physical therapy, then find the physical therapist that meets your needs, such as location and specialization.
- Preparing for Day One: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and bring your list of doctors and healthcare providers, medical history, symptoms, glasses or hearing aids, and questions you may have for your first appointment.
- Making Plans: The initial physical therapy sessions involve a comprehensive evaluation and assessment to better understand your unique condition. Then you can work with the physical therapist to create a customized treatment plan that supports your goals and preferences.
Discover your path to wellness through one of six dimensions in the Way of Wellness!
At Life Enriching Communities (LEC), we’re committed to ensuring patrons feel well-equipped to plan their future and age how they wish. Explore more resources on senior living or contact us today to learn more about our legacy of services and programs that bring meaning and purpose to every stage of life.