Who needs physical therapy

Physical therapy is an amazing treatment option for many people. It can be suitable for patients of all ages and targets a variety of  health conditions. It helps people recover from injuries and illnesses. Moreover, physical therapy aids in preventing such issues from occurring or worsening.

Oftentimes, it’s your primary care physician who evaluates and determines whether you need physical therapy or not. But who exactly needs physical therapy and how does it benefit them? People with the following conditions might find it essential to undergo physical therapy:

People suffering from chronic or acute pain.

Back pain and joint pain are among the most common conditions that are relieved by physical therapy. Different physical therapy techniques can reduce swelling of soft tissues and stiffness of joints, leading to significant pain relief.

People who have trouble moving around.

If you have trouble standing or walking after an injury or a stroke, a suitable physical therapy plan can be very beneficial. It improves balance and helps you gain control over your body. Most patients show better posture and walking ability after just a few sessions.

People recovering from an injury.

Victims of car accidents and work-related injuries commonly undergo physical therapy. Sprains, strains, and fractures are some of the conditions that can be successfully treated by physical therapy. It can also help wounds heal faster due to improved blood flow.

People diagnosed with chronic illnesses.

Patients with diabetes can undergo physical therapy to help keep their blood sugar under control, improve sensations, and heal wounds. Those with heart and vascular diseases benefit from the improved circulation that physical therapy provides. There are also breathing and stamina exercises to help people with lung problems.

People recovering from a stroke.

Recovery after a stroke can be a long and difficult process since its consequences often greatly affect the patient’s health. Luckily, the mobility problems and the weakening of muscles can be effectively treated with physical therapy.

People recovering after surgery.

Physical therapy can sometimes prevent surgery. Those who still have to undergo it can choose this treatment to ensure faster recovery, muscle strengthening, and pain relief. Post-surgical physical therapy leads to successful rehabilitation and higher quality of life in patients.

Pregnant people.

There are pre and post-partum physical therapy programs. It can help you adjust and have a more enjoyable pregnancy, prepare your body for the labor, and return to your daily activities faster once you’ve given birth.

Elderly patients.

Physical therapy provides a variety of effects older patients can benefit from. It helps prevent falls, manage age-related health conditions, such as osteoporosis, and improve your mental well-being. It can also help in slowing down the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

Children with certain developmental conditions.

Children with developmental delays and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system can undergo physical therapy as well. It helps their development and improves their overall health condition.

High-performance athletes.

Lastly, physical therapy is used to prevent and treat repetitive use injuries. Depending on the sport you practice, your physician will develop an individualized program to help you gain flexibility, improve strength, or help you in any other way you need.