You don’t require a prescription to access physical therapy in most states. The state of Pennsylvania follows the Direct Access Law. This allows you to be evaluated and treated by a Direct Access Certified Therapist without obtaining a doctor’s script first. Physical therapy can help you avoid unnecessary surgery or medication through early intervention.
Individuals can also return to their previous level of functioning with the support of a specialized physical therapy program. This encourages lifestyle modifications to help avoid more injuries and enhance overall health. A therapist can help you when you’re in pain or have difficulty moving.
Other instances when a therapist can help include;
When You Have an Injury
A physical therapist can assist you in reducing pain and regaining function if you have been injured. This might be anything from a sports injury to a car accident to a painful neck caused by staring at your computer or phone for the whole day.
A therapist can examine you right after you’ve been hurt. Your therapist can create a treatment plan to keep the injury from being chronic.
After Surgery
Surgery causes some bodily trauma. To get back to your normal daily activities, you’ll need the assistance of a physical therapist.
This will also help you in;
- Recovering faster
- Reducing the level of pain
- Moving your body with ease
- Healing faster
You will stay in the hospital for a shorter period if you commence therapy as soon as possible after major surgery.
Aging Issues
Although aging is a natural process, it comes with health issues and challenges, especially on your physical abilities.
A physical therapist can come up with an exercise routine to help in;
- Increasing strength and motion range
- Increasing coordination
- Maintaining balance and flexibility
Those therapists specializing in geriatric therapy can help you enjoy your golden years.
When You Have Pain
Whenever a doctor recommends medication for pain, think about physical therapy. It can help you reduce pain by incorporating physical exercise tailored to your unique health condition. Rather than masking pain, it cures through hands-on care. Your physical therapist can also teach you ways to limit your risk of re-injury.
Prevent Falls by Improving Your Balance
You will be examined for fall risk when you commence physical therapy. If you’re at risk of falling, therapists can give you exercises to stress your balance safely and control, simulating real-life situations.
Therapists can also give you coordination training gadgets to help you walk safely. Physical therapists can perform specialized exercises to restore proper vestibular functioning when your vestibular system causes a balance problem.
Types of Physical Therapy
There are many types of therapy, including;
Neurological physical therapy. People with cerebral palsy, Alzheimer’s disease, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and Parkinson’s disease can benefit from this type of therapy. The goal of the treatment is to increase strength and limb responsiveness.
Orthopedic physical therapy. Orthopedic therapy treats musculoskeletal injuries and conditions like tendinitis, sprains, fractures, and orthopedic surgery rehabilitation. Patients treated through this therapy undergo joint mobilizations, strength training, and manual therapy, among other modalities.
Vestibular therapy. This addresses balance issues that can arise as a result of inner ear issues. Vestibular therapy consists of various exercises and manual approaches that can assist patients in regaining balance and coordination.
Final Thoughts
At any stage in your life, a physical therapist can assist you. Consider seeking a referral for physical therapy if your ailment is limiting the quality of your life, regardless of your age.
At Cawley PT, we use European-style physical therapy, including hands-on therapy on almost all our patients.
Cawley is committed to providing every patient with individualized physical therapy. Call us today at 570-208-2787 or email cawleyptfrank@gmail.com
