Physical therapy programs are designed to help people move better. Whether you have a sports injury, pain that’s limiting your daily activities, an age-related condition like osteoarthritis, or you’re in post-surgery recovery, physical therapy can help you improve strength, mobility, balance, and flexibility to return to your normal life.
Physical therapists use several techniques to promote independent functionality and optimal mobility. Keep reading to learn more about who can benefit from physical therapy and what to expect from a therapeutic program.
Who Benefits From PT?
Anyone with an injury or condition that’s affecting their strength and mobility can benefit from a dedicated physical therapy program. This is especially true for people suffering from spine or joint pain. Many problems develop in the spine, hips, and knees due to the immense pressure placed on them during daily activities. Working with a physical therapist can help strengthen the muscles around the spine and weight-bearing joints to provide better support while also improving flexibility and range of motion to reduce painful movement.
Physical therapy is also an important part of the recovery process after a surgery. Post-surgery, it is needed to help patients regain strength and range of motion.
Common injuries and conditions that physical therapy helps treat include:
- Neck or back pain
- Arthritis
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Sports injuries
- Osteoporosis
- Overuse injuries (like tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome)
- Neurological conditions (like a stroke or spinal cord injury)
Physical Therapy Techniques
Physical therapists are highly trained medical professionals who are experts in the structure and functioning of the musculoskeletal system. If your doctor recommends a course of therapy, your therapist will develop an individualized care plan for you based on your specific injury or condition, therapy goals, lifestyle, and needs.
Therapists use several techniques during sessions. Your personalized program may contain a combination of the following:
- Hot and cold therapy
- Electrical stimulation (e-stim) and TENS
- Medical massage
- Traction
- Joint mobilization
- Therapeutic exercises
- Water therapy
- Light therapy
- Blood flow restriction training
- Dry needling
Cost Considerations
Many insurance providers cover physical therapy that’s deemed medically necessary by your doctor. If you have any cost questions or concerns, please reach out to our knowledgeable team at BEST Health System. We’re happy to help you find the information you need to know.
Call BEST Health System to Learn More
To learn more about our conservative treatment programs for acute and chronic pain, reach out to BEST today to speak to a dedicated care coordinator and schedule a consultation.
