October is Physical Therapy Month!
Some people think of physical therapy as something offered only to post-surgical or injured patients. While it is a supplemental treatment for those patients, physical therapy can provide more benefits that may improve your function and quality of life.
Physical therapy can offer the following:
Reduction of pain
Pain, whether acute or chronic, can affect your quality of life. Physical therapy is a great way to alleviate pain.
Physical therapists use a combination of therapeutic exercises and modalities (ultrasound, electrical stimulation) to minimize or eliminate pain. They also teach patients specific movements that can be done at home to help avoid pain that may develop in the future.
Conservative treatment before considering surgery
Surgery may be inevitable in some musculoskeletal injuries, but in many cases, surgery can be avoided through physical therapy. Research shows that physical therapy can reduce one’s risk of going through surgery.
Recovery after an injury
If you’ve been injured as a result of an athletic or sports activity, you may feel intimidated in going back to your usual activities.
A physical therapist, who has the rehabilitation and pain management experience and knowledge, can help you get back on your feet. He/she will create an individualized plan so you can be safely back on the move as soon as you can.
Prevention of injury
Physical therapy is not just for individuals who have been injured. It’s also for people who are prone to injuries.
Physical therapists can assess your potential weakness and poor mobility. These areas, when overlooked, can make you susceptible to injuries.
Physical therapists can help develop a custom plan to target those weak spots which will improve your performance and reduce your likelihood of getting injured.
Improvement of movement and balance
Falls are one of the most common causes of disability among seniors. Physical therapists can prevent fall-related injuries through custom plans that include movements for balance, mobility, and strength.
If movement and/or optimal functioning are important to you, our expert physical therapists at South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine can help. Learn more about our physical therapists here. Request an appointment today by contacting our Therapy Department at (772) 419-0544.