You have probably heard or seen someone undergoing physical therapy (PT) due to various medical conditions, disabilities, or illnesses. A physical therapy program is designed to help individuals get back to their previous functioning abilities. Since there are several types of physical therapy, a doctor will inform you of the type you need. It is also not limited to age, and anyone can undergo the procedure. Primary physicians have been known to refer PT to a patient when they diagnose certain health conditions. Here are a few benefits of physical therapy.
Helps Individuals Recovering from a Stroke
After a stroke, most people are unable to function or move properly. One form of treatment is physical therapy. It can help patients by strengthening body parts that have weakened, hence improving gait and balance. Since most stroke patients are dependent on loved ones to move around, physical therapy can help reduce the reliance. The therapist helps the patient learn how to move around so that they are more independent. They can therefore do basic tasks like toileting, bathing, dressing, and other things.
Eliminate Relieve pain
Physical therapy is also used to eliminate or reduce pain and restore soft tissue and joint function. For instance, frozen shoulder massage can help reduce shoulder pain and restore motion and function after several sessions. Therapies such as taping, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation can also prevent the pain from returning.
Improve Mobility
For anyone having trouble standing or moving, physical therapy can help despite your age. A physical therapist will conduct some stretching and strengthening exercises to help restore your ability to move. People using crutches, canes, and specific assistive devices may regain body mobility from physical therapy. Therapy can be adjusted to whatever activities a person does on a daily basis for maximum performance and safety.
Improve Balance and Prevent Falls
When one starts their physical therapy sessions, they are monitored for fall risk. For high-risk individuals, a therapist will help you perform various exercises that challenge your balance. They can also help improve body coordination to help you walk safely. Usually, when you have a problem with balance, the issue can be your vestibular system. The physical therapist can do certain maneuvers to help restore proper functioning of the vestibular and eliminate or reduce symptoms of vertigo and dizziness.
Recovery From a Sports Injury
Sportsmen and women are at a higher risk of injuries, especially intense sports like football, hockey, rugby, and athletics. When a sportsperson is injured, they get treatment and, after some time, get back on the field. One form of treatment recommended for sportspeople is physical therapy. To ensure one can safely return to the field, the therapist can tailor a recovery program to help you heal.
Manage Diabetes
When diabetic, a doctor will recommend exercising as part of managing the condition. It helps to control blood sugar effectively. In addition, people with diabetes have issues with sensations in their legs and feet. A physical therapist can educate such patients on the right foot care to prevent more problems down the road.
Most primary physicians recommend PT in various circumstances since they know the benefits it can offer. Therefore, if you have a condition that requires you to see a Physical Therapist, do not hesitate to find one.
