Physicians often recommend physical therapy for people who need extra help recovering from a bodily injury. If your doctor has recommended physical therapy, it’s a good idea to learn about it so you know what to expect.
About Physical Therapy
Physical therapy helps to treat chronic conditions and injuries with low impact exercises. It can be an alternative to surgery or medication, or it can be combined with it. Through the use of specific exercises, your body will begin to repair itself. For those who have been immobile, it can help them regain their strength so they can engage in the physical activities they once enjoyed.
Physical therapy isn’t meant to be used forever. Your physical therapist will work with you and your doctor on goals, and then will work with you to achieve them. Once you’ve met all of your goals, physical therapy often ends.
What’s important to know is that the effectiveness of physical therapy depends on you. The more work you put into it, the more benefits you’ll see. Physical therapists usually ask patients to do some of the exercises at home, and it’s those who do them that find they recover the fastest.
Conditions Treated with Physical Therapy
Doctors recommend physical therapy for chronic and traumatic injuries, such as:
- Physical disabilities
- Cardiac issues
- Orthopedic injuries and diseases
- Brain injuries
- Neurological disorders
- Amputations
Most chronic disorders that involve loss of coordination, loss of movement or loss of balance benefit from this treatment.
The Goals of Physical Therapy
The goals of physical therapy depend on what you need the most help with, which you and your doctor can decide on with the therapist. Most people report they are able to move faster, have better balance, more strength, increased flexibility, and improved respiratory and cardiovascular endurance.
Want More Information about Physical Therapy? Contact the Orthopedic Center Today.
Physical therapy may be what you need to return to an active, enjoyable life. Talk to your doctor about it or schedule an appointment with The Orthopedic Center at 918-582-6800. We can give you all of the information you need to help you decide if this form of treatment is for you.
