What You Need To Know About Physical Therapy

Following a significant injury, it’s recommended to seek help from a physical therapist. Daily or weekly sessions can make a huge difference and even helps patients recover from injuries that leave them immobilized. However, there are some considerations to have in mind before choosing a physical therapist. Like how not every damage is equal, not every physical therapist will be the right choice for you and your needs. To make the process easier, we’ll review some of the basics of physical therapy and some considerations before choosing your physical therapist.

Who Can Benefit From Physical Therapy? 

Physical therapy can help various patients in all healing stages, from diagnosis to restorative to preventative measures. Some common conditions physical therapy can help treat include:

• Sports injuries, including tennis elbow and concussions
• Neurological conditions like strokes, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injuries, vestibular dysfunction, and spinal cord injuries
• Wounds, skin burns, and diabetic ulcers
• Muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Rotator cuff tears, back pain, and temporomandibular joint disorders

What Are Some of the Benefits of Physical Therapy? 

Physical therapy has plenty of benefits that can help heal current injuries and prevent future injuries. Some benefits include:

• Fall prevention
• Stroke or paralysis recovery
• Improving overall balance
• Sometimes allows patients to avoid surgery
• Improving overall movement and mobility
• Pain management
• Management of age-related issues
• Helps patients recover from trauma or injuries

How Can Physical Therapy Help Athletes? 

Physical therapy isn’t just for helping patients with an injury, medical condition, trauma, etc. Physical therapy can also help prevent patients from suffering future injuries and help them use their bodies in new ways. In the case of athletes, many sports players incorporate regular physical therapy sessions into their workout routines. A physical therapist can help athletes strengthen their muscles and use their bodies in new ways.

What Are Some Ways You Can Find a Physical Therapist? 

Today we live in a digital age where you can quickly load up Google and search “physical therapists near me.” However, while this approach is convenient, referrals should still be your first resource. When possible, go with referrals from a trusted professional source such as your primary care provider or any physicians you may know. Other referral sources might be your coworkers, family members, or friends.

It’s essential to keep in mind that a referral may not always be the best choice. To narrow down your options, other factors you should consider: 

• The physical therapist’s experience: Along with wanting a physical therapist with plenty of experience, you also want a physical therapist with the right expertise.

• Is the location convenient: A physical therapist across the other side of town or a couple of hours away isn’t suitable. While the office doesn’t have to be next door, aim for a location close to your work or home.

• Consider overall compatibility: People have different personalities and chemistries, and working with someone you feel comfortable with is essential. Also, make sure they’re covered by your insurance.

These are some things you need to know about physical therapy. So, for physical therapy in Baltimore, MD, give Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic a call today!