People often think that the only time to invest in physical therapy is when they suffer an injury, but that is untrue. PT at a licensed physical therapy clinic is beneficial at various times in your life. The therapy focuses on functional exercise and education, teaching clients how their body moves. With a commitment to PT, people can reduce the likelihood of mobility issues as they age and reduce chronic pain symptoms. If you’re not yet sold on PT, consider five of its benefits.
1. Personalized Attention and Care
While anyone can exercise at home alone, it is not as beneficial as working with a musculoskeletal professional. A trained physical therapist can give you the personalized attention and care you deserve. They will help you determine the areas of your body that need the most work and focus. For example, maybe you have poor posture or experienced a sports injury in your youth that never appropriately healed; a therapist can help with all these things and more.
2. Expert Advice and Treatments
Working with a physical therapist goes beyond exercise and education. PT clinics typically offer a range of therapeutic options, including massage.
The type of treatment you need will depend on your specific needs and wants. A pain management treatment plan most likely includes exercise, stretching, massage, and home assignments. The process will also include advice about home exercises, dietary and lifestyle choices.
3. Improved Mobility and Balance
Physical therapy near me is about improving the quality of life for patients. As people age, they usually contend with mobility and balance issues. Using stretches and strength training, a PT program will help patients re-establish or maintain flexibility and range of motion.
If necessary, a therapist can design programs for people dealing with progressive conditions to ensure they maintain as much strength and balance as possible.
4. Reduced Chronic Pain
From arthritis to recurring neck and back pain, chronic conditions can interfere with daily activities and make life unbearable. Physical therapy can help reduce chronic pain.
As lovely as it would be to say PT eliminates chronic pain, the improvements made during therapy depend on several factors. That said, most patients will see marked improvements and experience reduced pain if they stick with pain management plans.
Commitment goes beyond exercises and therapy at the clinic. Patients must commit to exercising at home and following PT instructions.
5. Improved Athletic Performance
If you are an athlete, finding and committing to a physical therapist is beneficial. PT can help train your muscles and body to prevent common sports injuries. Also, the therapy can help improve balance and flexibility, ensuring you can perform at your peak.
Physical therapy Southern California is not only for patients with sustained injuries. Anyone can benefit from PT. If you are interested in working with a trained professional, contact a local physical therapy clinic and schedule a consultation. The initial meeting with the therapist will allow you to ask questions and get a feel for the office and the staff.