Now that we are settling into the New Year, it’s a great time to think about all that 2016 can bring. Get back to the activities you love this year with the help of physical therapy.
A trained physical therapist can target problem areas, help you understand your injury, pain or discomfort, and guide you in a treatment plan to help you get your body moving again.
There are many benefits to physical therapy; here are three important ones to consider:
- No Referral. In Ohio, you do not need a physician’s referral to see a physical therapist. When you are experiencing pain or discomfort, you can find a PT near you to book an appointment right away. This cuts the waiting time out of your recovery so you can start the process of healing much faster.
- No Medicine. Prescription medications are great when you need them, but they can come with side effects. You can achieve natural, healing results by working with your PT to control your pain.
- No Surgery. Surgery slows you down before it gets you moving. A physical therapist will work with you to understand the unique way your body works. Then, your PT can customize a treatment plan meant for you and your goals for recovery without the need for invasive surgery.
What to Expect
What happens in a physical therapy session depends on your specific condition and injury. It’s best to consult with your PT before taking on any exercises on your own. Common physical therapy practices could include:
Low-impact aerobics: These gentle workouts rev up your heart rate while protecting your joints. For instance, you may walk or use a stationary bike to warm up, then meet with your PT.
Pain relieving exercises: A trained physical therapist will target areas that need strengthening, and sometimes these areas might surprise you. Perhaps your PT will guide you through hip exercises for lower back pain. Core strength helps the whole body.
Strengthening exercises: Your physical therapist will have an array of tools, and he or she will know what’s just right for your body. Patients may use machines, resistance bands, or their own bodies for resistance.
Stretching: Stretching on your own is great — as long as you’ve been given some guidance first. An experienced physical therapist can show you what stretches will give you the most pain relief and how to do them without making your condition worse.
Too often, people who suffer an injury suffer alone because physical activities are part of their social life, too. Don’t wait to get back to the life you love. Physical therapy lets you be active again. You may even discover more activities to love while connecting with those around you.
If you are suffering from chronic pain or need help after an injury, find a skilled physical therapist today.
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