You don’t need to be an athlete or recovering from joint replacement surgery to take advantage of the benefits of physical therapy. Physical therapy is very beneficial not just as a treatment, but in preventative care as well.
What is Preventative Physical Therapy Used For?
Preventative physical therapy, or pre-habilitation, can help prepare you for strenuous exercise like running, cycling, HIIT, or CrossFit classes. It is especially useful in helping with strength, stamina, mobility, and flexibility so the body is more resistant to injury. Pre-hab can also aid in your recovery by reducing the amount of time it takes for your body to heal.
As we age, we become more prone to injuries and chronic conditions. In people over the age of 65, falls are one of the most common causes of emergency room visits and fatalities in seniors. Physical therapy addresses weak muscles and targets balance issues, which can lower the risk of accidents from falling.
“Many people think of physical therapy as a service to help you recover after injury or surgery. While this is true, Physical Therapists can also help in many other ways. At Catholic Health, our goal is to promote self-treatment and independence for people of all ages. Our team strives to offer the best care through education and exercise. Participating in physical therapy as part of a preventative health program can help decrease the risk of developing conditions such as high blood pressure, improve balance and strength to prevent falls, and build strength and stamina to improve performance in sports and recreational activities.”
A Safer Pain Management Option
Millions of adults live with chronic pain that impacts their life every day, which can affect not just their quality of life, but for some it also determines their ability to work. Over-the-counter or doctor prescribed medication can be a solution. However, some adults don’t feel comfortable taking them, or risk developing a substance dependency. Physical therapy is a safer option and is recommended by the CDC for long-term pain management.
Many Americans work jobs that require them to sit for most of the day. Pre-hab can improve posture and relieve muscle tension, tightness, and stiffness from leaning over a desk. A physical therapist can help straighten and realign your neck and spine to reduce back pain, one of the most common medical problems in the U.S.
Do you suffer from frequent headaches or migraines? Physical therapy can help relieve that too. You may potentially see a reduction in the frequency of headaches or migraines, and lower intensity of pain, or they may be alleviated completely.
What Other Conditions Can Physical Therapy Be Used For?
Many people are unaware that physical therapy goes beyond rehabilitation following surgery and treats more than arthritis, sprains, and broken bones. Physical therapy is used for a wide range of health problems and conditions, including:
- Osteoporosis
- Fibromyalgia
- Stroke
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (also known as TMJ or TMD)
- Cardiovascular disease
- Cancer
- COPD
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Sciatica
- Herniated discs
Compassionate Care from Skilled Professionals
When you need physical therapy, you can expect comprehensive, quality care from the knowledgeable experts at Catholic Health. Whether you are healing from an injury or trying to avoid one, our team is the right choice for your physical therapy needs. To learn more about our physical therapy services or to schedule an appointment with us, call 716-706-2112.
