Physical Therapy: More Than Just Rehabilitation
If you think physical therapy is only about rehabilitation after surgery or recovering from an accident, think again. For the vast majority, seeing a physical therapist should be about prevention, routine assessment, and staying well.
Breaking the Mold
“We’re the best-kept secret in health care,” Sharon Dunn, the past president of the American Physical Therapy Association, told The Associated Press.
Roger Herr, the current president of the APTA, and Gammon Earhart, associate dean for physical therapy at the medical school at Washington University in St. Louis, echoed Dunn’s prevention message in separate interviews with the AP.
Follow the Dental Model
Many in the profession favor thinking of physical therapists the way we do dentists; patients make appointments for regular exams.
Think Prevention
You can now visit a physical therapist in all 50 states without needing a referral from a physician or surgeon. That’s the good news.
The Hips for Ballet — or Not
We are all built differently with variations in hip architecture and so forth. It might be useful to evaluate children early to decide what sports or activities suit them. Testing beforehand to avoid a problem later is the perfect job for a physical therapist.
Fear of Falling
Falling — and the fear of falling — is debilitating for the aging population. Herr said physical therapists can help with relatively simple interventions.
Issues with Weight
Earhart estimated that perhaps 50% of physical therapy patients are there because of issues related to being overweight.
Conclusion
The image of the profession tends to be one-dimensional, with many people unaware of the preventive aspect of physical therapy. By visiting a physical therapist regularly, individuals can stay on top of their health and avoid potential problems down the line. While the price of these visits may be a barrier, the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile investment.
FAQs
Q: Can I visit a physical therapist without a referral from a physician or surgeon?
A: Yes, you can visit a physical therapist in all 50 states without needing a referral from a physician or surgeon.
Q: How often should I visit a physical therapist?
A: Many in the profession advocate for regular, routine visits for preventive care, just like dental check-ups.
Q: What does a physical therapist do during a preventive visit?
A: A physical therapist may conduct a health history and current health assessment, examine movement patterns, and evaluate strength and flexibility, among other things.
Q: How much does a preventive physical therapy visit cost?
A: The cost of a preventive physical therapy visit can vary, but estimates range from $150 to $300, depending on the location and the therapist.
Q: Can physical therapists help with issues related to weight?
A: Yes, physical therapists can help individuals with weight-related issues, including those preparing for weight-loss surgery or working to maintain a healthy weight.
Q: Can physical therapists help with the fear of falling?
A: Yes, physical therapists can help individuals with the fear of falling through exercises and other interventions designed to improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.
