Physical therapy (PT) is an NC Center For Physical Therapy effective and affordable option for treating pain. It can help people manage their pain without using opioids, and it may also help prevent future pain.
PT focuses on movement, coordination and strength. It combines hands-on care, patient education and prescribed exercises.
1. It’s Effective
Physical therapists use hands-on treatment to reduce pain and improve mobility. They also teach patients exercises to do at home and help them with lifestyle changes that promote healthy living.
In many cases, physical therapy can help people avoid surgery and use less medication for their pain and inflammation. It can also be an effective way to prevent or manage chronic conditions like arthritis and other musculoskeletal issues.
2. It’s Affordable
Whether you need physical therapy to help with an injury or as part of a recovery process after surgery, it’s often quite affordable.
This is due to a couple of factors. First, insurance companies are covering a lot more than before. And second, therapists are stuffing their schedules with more patient appointments than ever before as they struggle to make up for revenue shortfalls from cuts in payment.
3. It’s Medication-Free
Unlike pain medications that mask your symptoms and make them worse, physical therapy treats the root cause of your condition. It also teaches you guided exercises to strengthen your muscles and soft tissues.
Therapists use modalities like diathermy, dry needling, electrical stimulation and ultrasound to reduce pain, muscle spasms and inflammation. They’re non-invasive and drug-free, reducing the risk of side effects.
4. It’s Customized
A great therapist is able to NC Center For PT tailor a treatment plan to your personal needs. They’ll take into account your lifestyle, diet, and exercise habits to help you feel better and function at an optimal level.
They can also incorporate treatments based on physical stimuli such as heat, cold or electrical currents. These techniques are often used to stimulate a specific muscle or joint to improve movement or strengthen weak muscles.
5. It’s Fun
Whether it’s an acute injury or a chronic condition, physical therapy is a great way to improve your quality of life. The best therapists are able to incorporate your life and activities into a customized treatment plan.
A great therapist also knows how to play up your fun factor by making you laugh, smile and feel better about yourself. They might even be able to give you a new lease on life!
6. It’s Social
Physical therapy can help patients overcome their pain by rehabilitating joint and muscle function, strengthening and conditioning muscles. It also can help patients prevent further injury and discomfort.
PTs spend one-on-one time with their clients, a unique opportunity that other medical professionals do not have. This can lead to a deeper connection and understanding of their patients’ needs.
7. It’s Safe
While physical therapy is not for everyone, it can benefit anyone — regardless of age or ability. Treatment can help relieve pain, build strength, improve range of motion and reduce the need for invasive procedures like surgery.
It can also help you wean yourself from a heavy pain medication habit. As long as you follow your therapist’s lead and stick to your plan, you’re sure to see results.
8. It’s Convenient
Physical therapy can be a lifesaver for people dealing with chronic pain. The treatment plan varies based on the specific injury, symptoms and goals of each patient.
Traditional outpatient therapy requires patients to make child care arrangements, juggle work schedules and take time out of their busy lives to drive to a clinic. Telehealth or virtual therapy is a growing solution that allows patients to receive the benefits of physical therapy without the hassle.
9. It’s Rewarding
If you’re looking for a career that gives you a chance to impact lives, have steady career prospects, and excites you every day, then physical therapy might be the perfect fit for you!
PTs get to work with people for long periods of time, building relationships and getting to know them beyond their injuries or ailments. This is unlike other medical professionals who often only see patients for a short period of time.
10. It’s Helpful
Whether you are dealing with chronic pain from an injury or are in the midst of rehab after surgery, physical therapy can Physical Therapy Clinic help you get back on your feet. Treatments such as soft tissue manipulation, electric stimulation, and targeted exercise can help to relieve your pain and improve function and strength.
Conclusion
One of the most significant benefits of physical therapy is that it can help you live a more active lifestyle while reducing the need for medication.