Physical therapy is the treatment of disease, injury, or deformity by physical methods such as massage or heat treatment as opposed to drugs or surgery. This therapy helps people of all ages manage injuries, illnesses, and other health conditions that limit their functional mobility. Most physical therapy patients seek treatment for an injury or pain that requires immediate attention, but there are plenty of long-term benefits of physical therapy.
Recover From and Prevent Injury
Whether you are dealing with a sports injury, recovering from surgery, or dealing with chronic pain, one of the main benefits of physical therapy is helping you prevent these problems in the future. Your physical therapist will walk you through exercises and functional activities to help strengthen and recover from your injury. Once your recovery is complete, your therapist will equip you with the tools you need to maintain that level of strength and mobility on your own so that you can prevent injury down the line.
Improve Your Mobility
Having a wide range of motion is an indicator of strong, flexible joints. After a serious injury, people may lose some of that range, and if not properly addressed, it could be lost permanently. If you are having trouble standing, walking, or getting around the house, physical therapy can help. Your therapist will be able to design a treatment program that is customized to fit your physical needs, as well as provide assistive devices to help you in the meantime. Failing to give an injury the proper time to heal can result in reduced mobility. PT can prevent this from happening by providing you with the appropriate stretches and exercises your body needs to maintain flexibility after an injury.
Avoid Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is often caused by old injuries healing incorrectly or lacking proper strength in your muscles and joints. Physical therapy strengthens your muscles and increases your flexibility, which can in turn alleviate pressure on sensitive areas. Having stronger muscles around worn-down joints can reduce chronic pain and provide more support so that you can use your body without the familiar pain of your old injuries.
Avoid Surgery
If physical therapy can help you eliminate pain or heal from an injury, surgery may not be necessary. If surgery is necessary, pre-surgery PT can help prepare your body for the operation to reduce recovery time and promote strength.
Improved Balance and Coordination
When you begin your physical therapy, depending on the injury, you will be screened for fall risk. If you are at high risk, your therapist will provide exercises that mimic real-life situations to help you improve your coordination and balance. The vestibular system plays a large role in keeping us upright. If the root of your instability is in the vestibular system, your therapist can perform specific techniques to reduce symptoms of dizziness and vertigo.
Find Treatment at Theradynamics Physical and Occupational Therapy
Finding the right physical therapist for you is important. At Theradynamics, we specialize in providing the best health care possible with the latest in medical technology. Our QFNA technologies are designed to identify exactly what your body needs. Our treatment centers offer physical therapy in the Bronx, NYC, New Jersey, Manhattan, and Queens. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of physical therapy or would like to schedule an appointment, Contact us today!