I remember when I first started to consider physical therapy as a career option. One of the things I found out was that a lot of folks were not clear as to what exactly physical therapy is, and how helpful it can be (myself included). In this blog we are going to attempt to bust some of the myths that surround physical therapy and hopefully by the end you will feel more confident about seeking physical therapy services when you need them. Let’s dive in
Physical therapy is only for Injuries and accidents
This is one of the most prevalent physical therapy misconceptions. Yes, you should consider seeing a physical therapist when you have sustained an injury or accident. However Physical therapy is about much more than stretching and strengthening weak muscles after an injury or accident. Physical therapy may assist with a wide range of issues, including pain management and musculoskeletal disorders, as well as more specific issues including persistent headaches, lower back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and frozen shoulder.
Physical therapy is Painful
Although you may feel some discomfort or pain at the start of your treatment, one of the major goals of physical therapy is to improve mobility and stability. A skilled physical therapist will help you regain function and movement while working within your pain tolerance. There may be some discomfort along the way, but the result will be well worth it. If you suffer more than minor discomfort, talk to your physical therapist about whether your treatment plan needs to be adjusted.
You need a referral to see a Physical Therapist
Most individuals still believe that receiving physical therapy services requires a doctor’s prescription or recommendation. While this is true for some insurance companies to provide authorization, the reality is that in many states, physical therapists can provide direct access. All you need to do is call your physical therapist to find out.
Surgery is the Only Option
Of course, surgery may be essential for certain people. Physical therapy, on the other hand, has been found to be just as successful as surgery in treating a variety of conditions, such as meniscal tears, knee osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, and rotator cuff tears, to mention a few. Even if surgery is required, physical therapy may aid in your rehabilitation by providing pre-and post-operative treatment.
Anyone Can Perform Physical Therapy
Physical therapy may be administered by any health care practitioner, according to a large proportion of consumers. This isn’t the case at all. Only a licensed practitioner may do physical therapy. Physical therapists can also specialize in topics or methods such as the Mackenzie Method, Orthopedics, Women’s Health, Sports, and more.
Isn’t Covered by Insurance
Physical therapy is usually covered in some way by most insurance coverage. In reality, you may see a list of insurances we take on our website. Physical therapy has been shown to save money on other healthcare expenditures by avoiding people from having prescription medications, surgery, or imaging tests. Physical therapy can also help people prevent falls and manage problems before they become permanent, lowering expenditures in those areas.
All Physical Therapists are the Same
Physical therapists come in diverse forms, sizes, and colors as well as a variety of educational, training, and personal experiences. Although therapists learn comparable information and skills via their schooling, the tools and treatment philosophies they employ will be influenced by the job route they choose.
So, how can you locate the perfect physical therapist for you? Request referrals from friends and relatives, get a reference from your doctor and read online reviews. Also, ask the physical therapist or the physical therapy facility the following questions: What can I expect from my first appointment? What will the duration of the sessions be? How many times a week should I attend physical therapy and for how long can I expect to see results?
Because you will be spending a lot of time together, find a therapist with whom you connect, who you can trust, and who understands your treatment objectives.
“Fix” People
Although a physical therapist’s job is to assist you in your rehabilitation, there is no button they can press to address the problems that led you to physical therapy in the first place. It’s a collaborative endeavor that necessitates an active, rather than passive, attitude. Patients should anticipate putting in some effort in order to achieve positive and long-term benefits.
During the time you spend together during the week, your physical therapist can only achieve so much. They will, however, provide you with the exercises, knowledge, and advice necessary to continue therapy at home between treatments and after discharge, ensuring the greatest possible outcome.
Just Exercise-Based
A mix of manual therapy, modalities, patient education, and exercise is the most effective treatment approach for a range of musculoskeletal problems. No one should anticipate a complete recovery only via exercise. Every plan of treatment is unique and will be tailored to a patient’s specific requirements and objectives. However, be open and honest with your physical therapist if something about your therapy isn’t working for you or helping you reach your objectives — they’re there to assist you!
You must Stop Doing What You Love
The number one aim of your physical therapist is to get you back to doing what you love as soon as possible! Delaying therapy or rejecting that you require treatment may harm you in the long term and prevent you from returning to your favorite activities. While reducing or eliminating the things you enjoy might be difficult, it is simply a temporary measure to help you go back to them in full force.
Once You’re Discharged, You’re Done
Physical treatment is only the first step. Physical therapists don’t just “cure” individuals; they provide them with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve their health and wellness objectives. To sustain outcomes, it is the patient’s responsibility to follow their discharge instructions.
Expensive
Physical therapy is a steal when compared to surgery and other options. Keep in mind that most insurance policies cover it in some form. Furthermore, physical therapy can occasionally save patients money by avoiding more expensive treatment alternatives and by preventing future health problems.
Same as Massage
Physical therapists may use manual therapy techniques including soft tissue mobilization, muscle energy techniques, and joint mobilizations during treatment. While this may appear to be comparable to a massage therapist’s muscular massage, this approach delivers more customized treatment based on the biomechanics of the human body.
There you go, folks. Now go have fun with your therapy!
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