What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy (or sometimes called physiotherapy) is a series of non-surgical interventions for a myriad of conditions specific to physical health, usually related to pain management and strength training. Physiotherapy is often part of a patient’s treatment regimen, including other such things as prescription medication or even spinal injections. Furthermore, active and passive types of physical therapy can be incorporated into a patient’s recovery plan.

Back and neck pain are two of the most common pain-related issues people experience–upwards of 80% of the American population have reportedly experienced back pain at some point during their lives. Taking this into consideration, many people find themselves asking at some point or another: what can physiotherapy do for you, and is it a worthwhile endeavor? Our clinic adamantly believes that yes, it is–and the science only backs us up.  

Can’t I Do All This Myself?

Many patients may think that they know how to properly exercise, manage their pain, and rehabilitate themselves. We often hear stories from patients who insist they do not need therapy – as an example; “I’ve suffered this before and I know what works for me,” or, “I know what’s causing this, because a neighbor of mine had this same issue so I will just do what they did,” and then attempt to DIY their own recovery.

A physical therapist is a trained specialist in the fine art of biomechanics; specifically the proper rehabilitation of weakened or injured musculoskeletal joint locations. We are always going back and learning continuously to keep up with medical science as breakthroughs become known and available. Every patient’s needs are different, and we take pride in keeping that at the forefront of our approach.  

Physical Therapy is Customized

Physical therapists are experts in proper recovery techniques, being not only skilled but also highly trained in order to carry out their work on individualized recovery plans. They are informed about surgical procedures and treatment objectives and work closely with the physician referring patients over to them.

Additionally, physical therapists combine their learned understanding of medical procedures and recovery, with the goal of offering the most direct personalized treatment with what they identify about your body. They will examine your behaviors, habits, and movement limitations, determine your rate of recovery, and develop a program to help you return to action.

Physical Therapy is A Must Sometimes

Whether you undergo surgery or not, an essential part of recovery from a major injury is physical therapy. It provides a genuine fighting chance at: 

• Remedying defective movement patterns: Physical therapy may help to resolve the underlying pain-related symptoms if you have a severe injury or chronic pain. It not only offers relief from discomfort, but posture corrections may also help avoid repeated complications.

• Preventing scar tissue build-up: It is common for scar tissue to develop after an injury or surgery; however, excessive scar tissue can create additional pain, tightness, and discomfort. Movement therapies may help to soften and reduce the amount of scar tissue present at an injury site. To accomplish this, physiotherapists use stretching and massage techniques.

• Reacclimating tight muscles and stiff joints to regular ranges of motion. Part of maintenance involves stretching exercises, and in a controlled environment these are a core component of physiotherapy. An effective stretching regimen will be planned for you by your therapist.

• Improve your outcome: by treating discomfort, scar tissue buildup, and improving your range of motion, physical therapy helps bolster your post-surgical performance.