Physical Therapy Baltimore, MD

If you have had a stroke, you may be looking for Baltimore, MD physical therapy. A stroke occurs when blood flow to an area in the brain is cut off. When this happens, brain cells are deprived of glucose and oxygen and begin to die.  When the blood flow connections from your brain and your muscles are cut off, it can lead to loss of mobility and movement.

At Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, we are dedicated to providing world-class rehabilitation and physical therapy experience for our patients. Our cutting-edge clinic employs the most innovative stroke therapy technologies available anywhere.  Our Baltimore, MD physical therapists have extensive experience in providing programs for stroke victims, especially during the early crucial states of recovery when the patients have minimal control over the affected muscles.

The road to recovery can take a considerable amount of time and is dependent upon a regimented physical therapy plan.

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• 3 Myths About Physical Therapy
• Seven Do’s and Don’ts to Help You Through Physical Therapy
• BENEFITS TO BALTIMORE, MARYLAND PHYSICAL THERAPY AFTER AN INJURY
• Physical Therapy Infographic
• WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST PHYSICAL THERAPY APPOINTMENT
• What to Expect After Your Physical Therapy Appointments
• Speaking Up When You Have Questions or Concerns
• TIPS FOR COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR PHYSICAL THERAPIST
• 3 Additional Services Your Physical Therapist Can Provide
• HOW TO PREVENT THE NEED FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY
• How Do You Find The Right Physical Therapist?
• Common Myths About Physical Therapy
• 5 Reasons to Get Physical Therapy
• Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic Baltimore Physical Therapy

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Paralysis is often one of the results of a stroke.  During the first phase of recovery, the Baltimore physical therapy plan will include working with the area of paralysis to keep those muscles stimulated and toned, help prevent stiffness, and maintain circulation.  In doing so, if and when the function is returned to those areas, it may be easier for a patient to regain movement.

In the first meeting at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, you will receive a thorough exam, and we will review your physician’s notes and speak with you and your family about your symptoms and limitations.  This allows the development of a physical therapy plan that works for you, geared toward restoring mobility and preventing future problems that may arise because of having a stroke.

• Ask questions!  What are your expectations and does your physical therapist agree with your timetable? Here are some tips for succeeding at home while working with a Baltimore, MD physical therapy plan.
• Do your homework!  A Maryland physical therapist can work with you while you are with them, however, follow their instructions and do the exercises necessary to help you regain mobility.
• Make a schedule and follow it. This will help keep you accountable and consistent.
• Develop a mindset that says “I will keep doing the exercises until it works.” Remain positive.
• Be persistent and open to changes or modifications in your physical therapy plan.
• Do not get discouraged when you plateau. It is a normal part of recovery. Change up your routine when this happens to help stimulate your brain.
• Never give up hope – lots of stroke survivors have overcome paralysis against the odds.
• Exercises are passive or active – know the difference. You perform the movement on your own during active exercises. Active exercises help strengthen the neural pathways in your brain that help you accomplish the movement.  During passive exercises (also called range-of-motion exercises), you help yourself carry out the exercise when you cannot do it yourself. The point in assisting yourself is to help gain movement in your limbs, even though they may be paralyzed. The passive exercise helps your brain rewire itself – a process called neuroplasticity.
• Don’t let anyone’s opinion deter your efforts. Ignore people that tell you that you won’t achieve a full recovery or that you cannot do something. Believe in yourself and your recovery! 

3 Myths About Physical Therapy

People’s expectations about going through physical therapy is often very different from the realities of treatment. Part of why there is such a big gap is that people tend to have preconceived notions that are based on misinformation or false assumptions. Here are three of the most prevalent myths about physical therapy.

1. Only Major Injuries Require Physical Therapy

Individuals who have enjoyed fairly good orthopedic health for most of their lives and don’t have any previous experience with physical therapy may be forming expectations based on what they’ve seen on TV shows or movies. Naturally, a character who is getting physical therapy is probably the victim of a dramatic accident or coping with a serious disability. However, the utility of this basic treatment extends far beyond catastrophic injuries.

In real life, physical therapy can address a great number of conditions with varying severity. Most well-established practices such as Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab and Chiropractic treat patients for an extensive range of injuries.

2. The Goal of Treatment Is to Recover From Surgery

Another common misconception which may have its roots in fictional portrayals of treatment is that the purpose of working with a therapist is to rehabilitate an injury that required surgical correction. In many instances, however, people undergo therapy in the hopes of avoiding therapy.

Many patients who are attending physical therapy in Baltimore, MD at Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic have not had any type of surgery. Instead, they are seeking treatment to relieve pain and improve mobility with the hopes of avoiding surgery.

3. Physical Therapy Is Really Painful

When you envision what a physical therapy session would be like, you may conjure up images of patients grimacing and groaning as they strain to perform gruelingly painful exercises. In reality, not all therapy is hard and painful work. 

Patients who receive physical therapy in Baltimore, MD at Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic may undergo numerous types of treatment in a single session which do not involve performing any exercise at all. Massage, electrical stimulation, and heat therapy are examples of treatment that does not cause any type of discomfort. 

Some of the exercises that you perform with a physical therapist may be challenging and even cause a little soreness or inflammation, but they’re not supposed to feel agonizing. Your physical therapist will monitor how you’re doing during sessions. Therapists may encourage patients to push themselves, but they also emphasize the importance of recognizing limits and taking care to avoid aggravating an injury.

Seven Do’s and Don’ts to Help You Through Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can be instrumental in your healing from an injury. Therapy can help you return to your normal life, doing all the things you love doing. Physical therapists are there to guide you through your exercises, but your part is crucial if you want to successfully rehabilitate your injury. Here are seven do’s and don’ts to help you through the process.

Do Try and Pinpoint Exactly When the Pain Started

The more accurate you can be about what you were doing when the pain started, the better your physical therapy in Baltimore, MD, will work for you. Your therapist may ask a lot of questions about what happened, when it happened, and how much it hurts on any given day. 

Do Work Out Every Day

Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic therapists may prescribe homework for you to do every day at home. Make sure you do them exactly how your physical therapist showed you. If you do them incorrectly, you may be risking further injury.

Do Stay as Loose as You Can

Both in your physical therapy in Baltimore, MD, appointments and at home, keep your muscles loose. It’s tempting to tighten up when your therapist is moving your sore body part around, but her job will be easier, and you’ll feel less pain, if you can relax your muscles.

Don’t Get Stuck Walking on the Treadmill

It’s easy to do the exact same exercises the exact same way for the exact same amount of time. Don’t fall into that trap. If your exercises at home feel too easy, speak with your physical therapist about increasing the difficulty or doing another exercise altogether. 

Don’t Slouch

Whatever you’re doing, do your best to maintain proper posture. When you’re standing or sitting, keep your shoulders back and down and your head neutral on your neck. You may be tempted to slump in your seat, especially if it’s a cushy armchair or soft comfy couch. Avoid sitting in chairs that are too soft for just this reason.

Don’t Be a Wallflower

Speak up when you’re in physical therapy in Baltimore, MD, at Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic Ask questions to clarify what you’re doing. Say something if a particular movement hurts. Your physical therapist needs your feedback to make sure she’s treating you appropriately.

Don’t Assume Therapy Ends With the Last Session

Going forward after physical therapy in Baltimore, MD, you may have a list of exercises to keep doing and lifestyle changes to make. To continue strengthening your injured body part, pay attention to those instructions. Keep doing the exercises every day.

BENEFITS TO BALTIMORE, MARYLAND PHYSICAL THERAPY AFTER AN INJURY 

Physical therapy can offer a number of benefits to injury sufferers. It’s not uncommon for someone who is experiencing pain from an injury to put off seeking physical therapy Baltimore, MD trusts from Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic. However, taking the time to obtain treatment from a physical therapist can provide patients with a number of benefits.

BENEFIT #1 MITIGATE PAIN

Pain can have a significant impact on daily functioning. Sometimes, injuries do not get better on their own but require treatment from a professional like a physical therapist. A physical therapist can work with you to strengthen the injured area by improving muscle function and ultimately, eliminating the pain you may be experiencing.

BENEFIT #2 AVOID MORE INVASIVE TREATMENTS

The last thing anyone who has suffered an injury wants is to find that they require more invasive treatments. No one wants to undergo surgery due to an injury that just won’t heal. Making an effort to see a physical therapist and follow their recommendations may allow a patient to avoid surgery altogether. A physical therapist will work with you to promote healing to the injured area by strengthening the area and improving mobility.

BENEFIT #3 INCREASE MOBILITY

Physical therapists can educate injury sufferers on a series of stretches targeted to improve mobility to the injured area. During physical therapy in Baltimore, MD sessions, your physical therapist will provide you with exercises that target the affected areas of the body. With regular visits to a physical therapist and by diligently applying their teachings in your own time, patients may be able to increase their overall mobility as a result.

BENEFIT #4 PREVENT FURTHER INJURIES

Sometimes, injuries can worsen without treatment. Additionally, if your injuries were the result of physical activity that was done incorrectly, a physical therapist can teach you better ways to engage in the activity that originally resulted in the injury.

BENEFIT #5 REDUCE THE LIKELIHOOD OF PAIN MEDICATION

Baltimore, MD physical therapy has the ability to treat long-term issues that are causing pain to the affected area. By enduring treatment from a physical therapist, patients may experience a significant reduction in pain. As a result, patients once dependant upon medication to manage their pain may find that they no longer require the use of pain medication.

BENEFIT #6 LEARN EXERCISES AND STRETCHES THAT HELP

Once a physical therapist has assessed your injury, they will work to develop a treatment plan that will help you to strengthen the affected area. This treatment plan will additionally provide patients with education on how to stretch and exercise the injured area on their own. This benefits the patient in that treatment isn’t isolated to your Baltimore, Maryland physical therapy appointment. A patient has the ability to engage in exercises and stretches at home and, long after they have completed physical therapy Baltimore, MD relies on.

Physical therapy can help to rebuild and strengthen injuries. Strengthening the affected area can help someone experiencing pain put a stop to their discomfort and ultimately, experience a full recovery. Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic is dedicated to supporting patients by developing a treatment plan and supporting patients in their recovery process. Contact Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic so that we may evaluate you and help to determine your treatment needs.

Physical Therapy Infographic

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST PHYSICAL THERAPY APPOINTMENT

Are you considering physical therapy in Baltimore, Maryland to help manage pain? Perhaps you were injured and are looking to manage your symptoms? Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic can provide patients with premier care to help reduce pain and improve functioning and mobility. Physical therapy is often more comprehensive than a standard doctor’s appointment. If you have never been treated by a physical therapist, you may be unsure of what to expect. Here are some tips to bear in mind when preparing for your first appointment with us:

GATHER DETAILS

It’s always helpful for patients to take the time to gather details regarding their specific situation. This can save a lot of time in the long run and help your physical therapist to provide you with a more informed and comprehensive treatment plan. Examples of details to prepare may include:

• Your symptoms
• Medical history
• Scale your pain
• Current medication list
• Information of providers we should keep informed

Additionally, you may want to gather a list of questions you have for your Baltimore, MD physical therapist. There will be a lot covered in your initial appointment, making it easy to lose track of the questions you may have had.

ARRIVE A FEW MINUTES EARLY

When you come to your first appointment, there will be some paperwork for you to fill out. Arriving a few minutes early to complete the necessary paperwork can ensure that your appointment begins on time and that insurance information has been provided to our office.

DRESS APPROPRIATELY

Wear comfortable clothing that you are able to move easily in. You will want to make sure that your clothing is loose enough to allow the physical therapist access to the injured area. This will allow you the ability to perform the stretches or exercises required for the appointment. Some people even bring extra clothing to change into when they arrive.

CONDUCT A PHYSICAL EVALUATION

Once we have spent time discussing your condition, we will conduct a physical evaluation. During the evaluation, your Baltimore, MD physical therapist will focus on areas that may be causing you problems. You can expect for us to assess your strength, measure your range of motion, and your mobility. We may provide additional assessments as necessary.

THERE MAY BE HOMEWORK

The idea that there may be work to do outside of your regularly scheduled physical therapy appointments isn’t meant to be daunting. However, by taking the time to follow your physical therapist’s recommendations to engage in your PT exercises at home; the better opportunity you give yourself to experience improvements to the impacted area. It’s not uncommon for a physical therapist in Baltimore, MD to recommend that you engage in the exercises they have taught you at home.

WHO BENEFITS FROM PHYSICAL THERAPY?

There is a common misconception that only certain “kinds” of individuals can benefit from physical therapy. In reality, physical therapy can benefit athletes, those who haven’t really moved in years, babies, kids, teens, adults, and older adults alike. Whether you have recently suffered an injury, an old injury site is “acting up,” you suffer from chronic pain, you don’t move much, or you move your body for a living, chances are very good that you could benefit from physical therapy.

Common, chronic medical conditions that may benefit from physical therapy include overuse conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow. Chronic jaw, neck, and/or back pain are also commonly treated via physical therapy. Recovering from acute medical conditions, such as stroke, heart attack, and concussion can involve physical therapy components of a broader treatment plan. Young kids experiencing developmental delays or conditions such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy may also benefit from this kind of attention. Sports, dance, and recreational injuries often require physical therapy. In recent years, physical therapy has also increasingly been used to treat pelvic floor conditions, including urinary incontinence.

As you can see, it is important to avoid assuming that your condition cannot benefit from physical therapy, as this medical resource is used to treat a host of different conditions manifest in people of all ages. Whether you are struggling in the wake of sustaining acute trauma or you’re grappling with a chronic condition, physical therapy may be able to assist you in living your best life. If you have questions about whether pursuing physical therapy is a good idea for your unique situation, connect with our team today to learn more.

Should I Call My Health Insurance Provider Before Attending Physical Therapy?

Being proactive about your insurance coverage can be a good idea when it comes to physical therapy. Most of the time, insurance providers cover physical therapy services, provided that a patient has some sort of condition that warrants this treatment. Sometimes, insurers will require a treating physician to officially refer a patient before services will be covered, though. As a result, it is a good idea to connect with your health insurance provider before attending your physical therapy appointments. This way, you’ll know – for sure – whether your treatment is covered, whether you are being subjected to a “cap” on the number of sessions you can attend at a fully covered rate, whether you will need to secure a referral before receiving services at a covered rate, etc.

What to Expect After Your Physical Therapy Appointments

If you are about to begin having Baltimore, MD physical therapy sessions at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, it is important to know what to expect from the process. Setting expectations will help you to remain motivated when things get tough, to prepare for your sessions so that you can benefit from them to the maximum degree possible, and to generally achieve Peace of Mind. When you attend a consultation with our team, we will help you to set expectations for what the physical therapy process will entail, how to set realistic and achievable goals for the process, and how to clarify what you want from your sessions individually and overall.

It is also important to discuss what to expect after your physical therapy appointments occur. Many patients are surprised to find that they are sore after their sessions, that they become anxious after some sessions, or even that they become frustrated to a degree that surprises them. It can be helpful to think about physical therapy like you would intensive counseling. Retraining your body, like retraining your mind, can be exhausting.

You may find that you feel quite vulnerable after your physical therapy appointments and that you may be frustrated at the pace with which you make progress. You may even find yourself grieving actively for a time when you did not need physical therapy services. All of these reactions to this intensive process are normal. Knowing to expect that you may feel this way can help you to ensure that you aren’t too hard on yourself if and when this happens.

Setting Short-Term, Medium-Term, and Long-Term Expectations

The Baltimore, MD physical therapy providers at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic approach physical therapy treatments from a short-term, medium-term, and long-term perspective, unless there is a compelling reason to adopt an alterative approach. This outlook, which is multidimensional, honors the fact that physical therapy is not simply a series of individual sessions. It is a process. As a result, it is important to set goals focused on each time period within this process.

When you set short-term goals, you can push yourself to achieve more than you ordinarily would because your goals are smaller and more achievable in nature. Medium-term goals help you think about the “why” of investing in physical therapy. It isn’t just about getting through your second set of exercises. It is about healing or striving to achieve greater well-being. Long-term goals can help you to remain focused when you’re ready to quit or move on because you’ve encountered a period of boredom with your physical therapy journey. You’re not just “in this” to see results when you want to see them. You’re “in this” for the long-haul to benefit your life as a whole.

Speaking Up When You Have Questions or Concerns

When setting expectations about your physical therapy process, make sure to speak with the experienced Maryland medical team at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic if and when you have questions or concerns. We can’t address your issues if we don’t know that you’re struggling. Please trust that our Baltimore, MD physical therapy is here to help in any way that we can.

WILL MY HERNIATED DISC HEAL ON ITS OWN?

The human body has an amazing capacity to heal from even the most extensive injuries, given the right conditions. That includes herniated discs. Whether or not a herniated disc heals may depend on things like your age, the cause of the herniation, and the care and treatment provided to promote the recovery process. At Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, we offer advanced treatments that may promote healing of your herniated disc. To address this issue, it’s helpful to understand how discs herniate and which factors impact their chances for healing.

WHAT IS A HERNIATED DISC?

The discs between the vertebrae in the human spine are specially designed to act as shock absorbers. They provide flexibility and allow for comfortable movement. Intervertebral discs are constructed of a strong, flexible, and fibrous outer layer that surrounds a cushiony interior containing a gel-like fluid. 

When the tough outer layer tears, cracks, or weakens, the inner gel may bulge out. In some instances, the outer layer tears completely, and the gel leaks out. When the bulging disc or leaking gel applies pressure to the surrounding spinal nerves, pain occurs. The gel also triggers an inflammatory response that adds to the pain and discomfort.

HOW DO INTERVERTEBRAL DISCS BECOME HERNIATED?

Over time, the outer layer of a spinal disc may suffer natural degeneration from daily wear and tear. Furthermore, the inner layer of fluid is partly made of water, and it tends to dry out over the years. A dehydrated disc is less flexible and more vulnerable to damage.

Age-related changes are the leading cause of disc herniation. However, younger adults, teens, and children can also suffer from bulging discs. Sporting activities and many other types of injuries may cause a herniation. Several factors are known to increase the risk of a herniated disc. They include:

• Weight: Extra pounds put additional and undue stress on intervertebral discs
• Gender: Men may have as much as twice the risk of a disc injury than women
• Occupation: Jobs that require repetitive actions, pulling, lifting, and bending may increase the risk of herniation
• Sitting for long periods: Staying for extended lengths of time puts causes pressure on the discs
• Smoking: Tobacco smoking tobacco may accelerate disc degeneration, as it can limit the oxygen supply to the intervertebral discs that are already challenged by a minimal blood supply

So, can my herniated disc heal on its own?

Your symptoms may subside in the short term, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the disc has healed. You can feel less pain, yet the original weakness or damage may remain. In some cases, the disc heals fully. However, it takes time for the bulging material to be reabsorbed by the body.

Factors that can play into the healing potential include your age and the cause of the herniation. Dehydration and degeneration associated with aging may not heal on its own. Conversely, individuals who have suffered acute injuries to spinal discs can improve if they follow the appropriate treatment plan. 

Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic is ready to help you on the road to recovery. Let us put together a treatment plan that gets you moving and puts hope back into your life. Contact us today to set up a consultation for physical therapy Baltimore, MD families recommend.

TIPS FOR COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR PHYSICAL THERAPIST 

To get the most out of physical therapy in Baltimore, MD, you have to communicate well with your therapist. Here are some tips for effectively communicating with your therapist:

Think Out Loud: Since your physical therapist can’t read your mind, you should talk about your feelings and concerns out loud. If you, for example, feel too much pain when your therapist is giving you a massage, you should speak up. Don’t just try to deal with the pain.

Be Completely Honest: There is no reason to lie to your physical therapist or leave out important details. If you are completely truthful, you will get more out of your treatment. If you have not been performing the exercises you were assigned at home or don’t believe the therapy is working as well as it should, tell that to your therapist.  

Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask your physical therapist as many questions as you want. The more you know about your treatment, the better. For example, you may want to know approximately how many physical therapy sessions you will require or if there are any exercises you should do at home to facilitate the process. Consider writing down your questions in a notebook so that you don’t forget them.

Be Specific About Your Goals: During physical therapy in Baltimore, MD, you should be as specific as possible about your goals. For instance, you may hope to improve your balance to avoid slipping and falling. Or perhaps you want to relieve pain from an injury. Your physical therapist will assess your goals and let you know if they are realistic or not. If your therapist doesn’t believe that your goals are realistic, he or she may suggest alternative goals.

Journal Your Symptoms and Activities: It is a good idea to write about the symptoms you’re experiencing and how your normal activities are affected by them in a journal. This way, you won’t forget any important details and can talk about them with your physical therapist. For example, if you’ve been experiencing neck pain and work a desk job, pay attention to your posture and write about it in your journal. If you notice that you slouch quite often, jot that down. In this case, your therapist may suggest sitting up straighter and getting up from your chair every hour to walk around.

Physical Therapy Statistics

According to the Cleveland Clinic, 25% of Americans live with ongoing chronic pain. Physical therapy in Baltimore, MD can be difficult for some to commit to. While many patients are hoping for an overnight fix to the issue that ails you, changes usually don’t occur overnight. However, by committing to Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic you provide yourself with the best chance towards improved functioning. Allow for us to assist in the recovery to the area of the body causing problems. For further questions, or to schedule an appointment with one of our physical therapists, contact us today.

3 Additional Services Your Physical Therapist Can Provide

Many people end up at physical therapy for a variety of different reasons. Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic perform extensive evaluations and treat many different patients with specialized treatment plans. However, this isn’t the only thing you can get out of physical therapy in Baltimore, MD. In fact, your treatment may include a combination of services. Here are some examples.

1. Corrective Exercises

There could be many reasons why you’re experiencing persistent pain, but a common reason for physical therapy patients is that a certain muscle group has weakened over time, is holding tension, or isn’t being used correctly. Many people experience a combination of the three. Injuries also cause pain that can be alleviated by building up the surrounding muscle groups for support. You can use corrective exercises to strengthen the targeted area and feel some relief. This type of treatment is more likely to give you results as you rebuild strength, so doing your “homework” between your physical therapy appointments is key.

2. Chiropractic Care

Physical therapy in Baltimore, MD often works well with chiropractic care. Many injuries are due to misalignments, and chiropractic care can help relieve pain right away. It’s also good for improving posture, which can help support the exercises being completed in physical therapy. Some chiropractic techniques can be painful or uncomfortable, so you may not start with a chiropractor immediately. Like massage, more forceful manipulations can be something you work up to.

3. Screenings and Lifestyle Advice

Issues with spine health can cause severe pain over the course of your life, so the sooner those issues are identified, the sooner you can start treatment. Many physical therapists also offer screenings and lifestyle advice to help their patients achieve a better quality of life. In addition, lifestyle advice can help the results from physical therapy last longer. Far too many people think that they can go to physical therapy and do nothing in-between visits, and so they don’t heal as expected. More unnecessary visits can cost more money and cause more discomfort in the long run.

Physical therapy in Baltimore, MD has a lot of benefits, but sometimes it works better in conjunction with other treatments. After your initial examination, your physical therapist will create a recommended course of action to work with your health goals. Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic offers many services to give you a comprehensive pain relief care experience.

HOW TO PREVENT THE NEED FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY

Unfortunately, sometimes needing to enlist the help of a physical therapist is necessary and unavoidable, especially following a serious injury or accident. Although there isn’t always a surefire way to prevent the need for physical therapy, there are some methods you can use that’ll strengthen your chances. Some of these methods include: 

• Staying active: While phrases like, “use it or lose it” are very corny, there’s also some truth to these phrases. Staying active will help your body perform at its optimal state and prevent the risk of injury. Many professionals recommend adults aim to fit in 30 minutes of exercise five days a week. This doesn’t mean you have to hit the gym or go on intense runs either. Even sneaking in exercise like walking more can produce great results. 

• Don’t overdo your exercising: While exercising is great, you’ll also not want to overdo things. Your body requires a period for cooldown and recovery, and constantly pushing your body to its max may result in damaging muscles. When increasing the intensity of your workouts, it’s important not to do too much too soon. 

• Consider hiring a trainer: If you want to visit the gym more often and increase the intensity of your workouts, hiring a trainer can greatly help. A trainer can motivate you as well as turning you onto new workout routines, helping you with your diet, providing you with the proper equipment, etc. 

• Wear protective equipment: This tip may not apply to everyone, but if you do engage in sports or activities such as football or riding dirtbikes, then you’ll want to ensure you’re wearing equipment like helmets and pads. Additionally, this step also applies to wearing seatbelts when in a vehicle. 

• Take frequent breaks while at work: Whether you’re lugging boxes off a conveyer belt in a factory or crunching numbers behind a cubicle, it’s important to take breaks. Remind yourself to get up, stretch your legs, grab some water, do small stretches, etc. 

• Practice good posture: Good posture goes a long way in preventing injuries such as injuries to your back, spine, or neck. It’s important to sit up straight and not slouch. 

• Have a healthy diet: We’re all guilty of having one too many sweets sometimes, but it’s important to have a healthy diet. Have a diet rich in leafy greens, and lean meats, and keep the sweets and excess carbs to a minimum. You should also avoid sweet drinks and drinks with excess caffeine. 

• Remain hydrated: Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Doing so will keep your body hydrated and happy. 

• Get plenty of sleep: It’s recommended that adults get at least eight hours of sleep every night, but everyone’s body is different. One way to ensure you’re getting enough sleep is to set a nightly routine. For example, if you need to work at nine in the morning, aim to go to sleep every night by ten. 

• Avoid bad habits: Bad habits like binge eating, drinking too much, or smoking all have serious impacts on your physical and mental health. Avoiding these bad habits can better prevent the need for physical therapy in the future. 

Physical Therapy Baltimore, MD

Rehabilitation is a critical step in helping you recover from an injury or stroke and that is why finding physical therapy in Baltimore, MD is important. When you go through something traumatic you can be left with a reduced range of motion or even with lingering pain. The Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic team is ready to help you find the right physical therapist for you. 

When you start your search for a physical therapist it is important to find the one that will be the right for you. How do you go about that though? Read on to see how to find the right person for the job. 

How Do You Find The Right Physical Therapist? 

Finding the right person for the job can be daunting. There is so much information out there that can get overwhelming. To ensure that you find the right person for the job you here are some tips to get you started: 

Certification 

The most important factor when it comes to choosing a physical therapist is going to be if they are certified. In order to practice all physical therapists need to have a degree from an officially recognized physical therapy program and have completed the national licensure examination. You may also be working with a physical therapy assistant who also has to go through qualifications. Without the certification, they cannot practice and if you find that yours is working without one, leave. 

Do Research  

Just like doctors, there are different kinds of specializations, such as sports medicine, joint replacement therapy, or after a stroke. This is why calling and visiting different clinics is key. You need to get as much information as possible to make sure the physical therapist you are working with can give you the best care.  

Choose Someone You Get Along With  

If you don’t get along with someone, what makes you think that you’ll get better? The chances are you won’t want to come back and you could stay in pain. Make sure that you choose someone that you have a good rapport with and that you feel comfortable with. If you can’t be open and honest with them, then they aren’t the one for you.  

Know Scheduling  

Before you start, make sure that you are going to be seeing the same physical therapist every visit. Consistency is key. You wouldn’t want to send your car to a different mechanic every week to rebuild the engine after all. So why would you want to see a different person each week? 

Understand Your Homework  

Before you leave, you need to understand what the physical therapist is asking you to do at home. If you don’t understand something, then you need to ask. Being able to do the work needed at home makes all the difference in the long run and can help you get better faster. If you don’t understand something, ask and have them explain it to you in detail. If they can’t or won’t then it is time to find a new physical therapist. 

If you are considering physical therapy in Baltimore, Maryland then consider the Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic team for your needs. If you have more questions don’t hesitate to reach out today. 

Common Myths About Physical Therapy

If you are dealing with an injury or chronic pain, physical therapy in Baltimore, MD may be beneficial. However, the therapy is still widely misunderstood. Some people believe certain misconceptions about this therapy and avoid it. Here are some common myths about physical therapy that you shouldn’t believe.

• Physical therapy is very painful. Some people are reluctant to try physical therapy because they assume it will hurt too much. However, this is not the case. The entire point of physical therapy is to alleviate pain, not cause it. If you do feel some discomfort during the process, inform your physical therapist immediately.
• Physical therapy only involves exercise. It is true that exercise plays an important role in physical therapy. However, it is not just exercise based. There are various types of treatments involved in physical therapy, such as manual therapy, traction, electrical stimulation and kinesiology taping. A therapist will customize a treatment plan for you based on your specific condition.
• Physical therapy costs a lot of money. Another reason why some people shy away from physical therapy is because they don’t think they can afford it. The truth is that physical therapy is more affordable than many people think. It is certainly less costly than undergoing surgery. Plus, many health insurance companies recognize the benefits of physical therapy and cover it in their plans.
• Your physical therapist will fix everything. Too many people go into physical therapy assuming that their therapist will just fix them. While a physical therapist will play a major role in your recovery, you also have to take an active approach in your healing. For example, your therapist may advise you to perform certain exercises at home and improve your posture. Always follow your therapist’s instructions. 
• Physical therapy can only treat injuries. This is another common misconception about physical therapy. Although physical therapists do often treat patients who suffered injuries in an accident, they also treat many other conditions, including lower back pain, chronic headaches and carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Surgery is always a better option. Surgery is sometimes necessary to treat certain injuries and health conditions. However, it should only be used as a last resort. Going under the knife can carry serious risks, like infection and bleeding. In many cases, physical therapy can help people avoid surgery.

5 Reasons to Get Physical Therapy

The benefits of physical therapy have been long proven and patients who have benefitted from physical therapy can testify to its effectiveness. If you’ve experienced an accident or injury or are having trouble using your full range of movement you may want to consider physical therapy Baltimore, MD patients have found benefits from using. Don’t hesitate to give us a call to schedule an initial consultation where we will discuss your medical history, pains you’re experiencing, treatment plan options, and more. 

1. Injury Recovery Treatment
   After being injured in some way, it can be difficult to heal properly and fully without using physical therapy to assist with your healing process. Your physical therapist will work with you to restore your movement as much as possible to what it was before your injury. Depending on the severity of your injuries it may be a difficult road ahead, but your therapist will be committed to helping you improve your physical abilities.
2. Restored Mobility
   Whatever the reason for your loss of mobility, you may be surprised by the improvements you can have with Baltimore physical therapy. Your therapist will create a treatment plan that is specific to you and your needs. No matter how long it has been since you’ve had full mobility, you can likely improve with the help of physical therapy. 
3. Insurance Coverage
   Depending on your insurance coverage and the reason for your therapy, your physical therapy treatment may be covered in full or in part by insurance. Insurance coverage may make therapy affordable for you and an option that you didn’t know you had. You can find out what your coverage is by reviewing your insurance plan with your insurance company or we can check on it for you when you visit our office. 
4. Pain Relief
   If you’ve been experiencing pain that is constant or when you move in a certain way then you may be able to relive your pain with the help of physical therapy that is specific to you and your body. It is nearly impossible to live a full or normal life when you have pain to deal with. You may not have to live like this with daily pain, and your therapist will work with you to create a treatment plan with a goal of relieving or fully eliminating your pain. 
5. Increased Strength
   Physical therapy typically utilizes exercises designed to increase your muscle so that to support your body. Your therapist will include exercises that are necessary for increasing your strength in specific areas, for example, a strengthened core can support your back and other muscles that could help to relieve back pain by not putting so much strain on your back. 

Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic Baltimore Physical Therapy

Call Our Clinic Today

Whatever your need is for physical therapy, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic. Our Baltimore physical therapy may be just what you need to improve your quality of life. Call us today to schedule a consultation.

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