The Benefits of Physical Therapy
Reasons to See a Physical Therapist
Most commonly, a physical therapist (PT) is seen after an injury or surgical procedure. Typically your doctor will refer you to a PT, and they will help you physically support and strengthen a certain area of your body. PTs work with you and your unique health condition to develop a rehabilitation program that will stimulate the recovery process, helping you return to everyday activities.
However, recovery and rehabilitation aren’t the only times to see a PT. Here are some other reasons.
Managing Pain
One of the main reasons people seek physical therapy is to help manage chronic and persistent pain. To help manage your pain, your PT will help you better understand the root cause and develop a treatment plan to address your individual needs. Some of the many treatments that may be used to manage your condition include:
- Trigger point dry needling
- Exercise therapy
- Electrical stimulation
- Hot or cold therapy
- Ultrasound
Preventing or Delaying Surgery
In some cases physical therapy is referred to as ‘pre-hab.’ This is because it can be used to manage chronic pain that may otherwise need more invasive treatment down the line. It can also be used before a surgical procedure to help the recovery process along afterward.
Improving Mobility
If you find yourself feeling stiff or are dealing with a narrower range of motion, physical therapy can help to improve your mobility. Typically, physical therapy for mobility issues includes exercises that focus on improving the following:
- Balance
- Strength
- Flexibility
Preventing Falls
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 800,000 people in the United States are hospitalized each year because of injuries from a fall. It is essential for older adults to prevent these types of accidents from happening because it takes much longer for them to recover. Physical therapy can be used to reduce the risk of falling by providing education and exercises to promote better balance and physical abilities.
Making Pregnancy More Comfortable
Because a woman’s body is going through continuous physical changes throughout pregnancy, the process can bring on aches, pains, and general discomfort. Introducing physical therapy into your prenatal care can help alleviate many physical symptoms while also helping you remain physically active.
Some of the benefits of physical therapy for pregnancy include:
- Improving lower back pain
- Decreasing stress levels
- Improving muscle strength
- Alleviating joint pain
- Improving posture
- Increasing mobility and range of motion
- Improved flexibility
- Faster recovery after delivery
Physical Therapy Services in Duluth, Minnesota
While many people push through their aches and pains every day, you shouldn't have to. At St. Luke's Physical Therapy, our board-certified therapists located throughout the region will work with you to develop individualized treatment plans that are specific to your needs and goals, helping you to get back to your routine.
To learn more about St. Luke's physical therapy services or establish care with a provider, visit our website.