Every October we celebrate National Physical Therapy Month. This annual occurrence is our opportunity to celebrate the profession and our own physical therapists and physical therapy assistants and aides, who make a difference in patient lives each day. It also gives us the opportunity to raise awareness about the benefits of physical therapy.
As we become more focused on holistic health and long-term mobility, National PT Month 2024 serves as a timely reminder of the vital role physical therapy plays in achieving a pain-free, active lifestyle. This month, we want to spotlight the growing importance of physical therapy. It is not just for injuries — PT can help manage chronic conditions, boost fitness levels, and prevent future health issues.
How physical therapists improve lives.
Physical therapists are experts in human movement and the musculoskeletal system. They diagnose and treat individuals of all ages and abilities, with the goal of improving quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed exercise. Physical therapists don’t only work with individuals recovering from an injury or a surgical procedure, but also care for people who simply want to become healthier and prevent future issues. PT can be part of your routine for enhancing strength, flexibility, and balance — essential components for longevity and independent living as you age.
Founded in the early 1950s, Therapeutic Associates Physical Therapy has stood the test of time. For us, it is more than just a job. From your first visit and throughout your course of care, we offer a wide range of personalized services designed to meet your individual needs.
Key benefits of physical therapy.
There are many benefits of physical therapy – from pain reduction to improved movement. But many people are unaware of the extent of the benefits that PT can provide.
Avoid Surgery
Because physical therapy can help to eliminate pain or aid in healing after an injury, surgery can sometimes become unnecessary after a course of PT treatment. And even if surgery is required, physical therapy before surgery can improve your overall outcome. When you go into surgery stronger and in better shape, recovery is typically faster and more thorough. Additionally, post-operative rehabilitation is more successful when you work with a PT.
Prevent Injuries
A physical therapist can assess movement patterns, identify imbalances, and prescribe corrective exercises to prevent future injuries. For athletes or active individuals, this can make a huge difference in performance and longevity.
Drug-Free Pain Relief
Physical therapy offers relief from chronic pain conditions without relying on medication. Through targeted exercises, manual therapy, pain education, and other modalities, PT addresses the root cause of your pain, providing long-lasting relief.
Improve Mobility
Whether you’re recovering from surgery or dealing with age-related joint stiffness, PT helps restore mobility through personalized rehabilitation plans. It addresses muscle imbalances and joint restrictions, ensuring you can move better and feel stronger.
Manage Chronic Conditions
Physical therapy can be instrumental in managing various chronic conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, scoliosis and fibromyalgia as well as MS and other neurological disorders.
Regular exercise helps improve strength, flexibility, and overall well-being, which are essential for managing symptoms. Additionally, physical therapists educate patients on lifestyle modifications and develop customized exercise programs tailored to their unique needs. This comprehensive approach not only aids in symptom management but also empowers patients to enhance their quality of life and prevent further complications.
Improve Mental Health
Chronic pain and prescription pain medication can lead to depression, anxiety, and isolation. Physical therapy will help to get your body moving and working normally again, releasing “feel-good” chemicals called endorphins. Working with a PT to establish a regular, daily exercise routine is the optimal choice to support mental health and combat depression.
Take the first step on your PT journey.
As physical therapists, we work with patients to understand their goals, and design a customized plan of care to achieve the best possible outcome and get them back to health. Get started with PT today!
Direct Access to PT: What You Need to Know
Did you know that in most states, you can access physical therapy without a physician’s referral? Direct access laws empower you to start PT sooner, addressing concerns without the extra step of getting a doctor’s prescription. This leads to faster care and quicker relief.
Did you know?
5 things you may not know about physical therapy.
- WW I and the 1916 Polio outbreak led to a national and international need for rehabilitation to treat soldiers and children. The field provided career opportunities for woman and in 1918, the term ‘Reconstruction Aide’ was given to those practicing physical therapy.
- Physical therapy is a female-dominant field, making up just under 70 percent of the physical therapist work force.
- Many studies have shown that physical therapy can be more effective than surgery to address knee and back conditions.
- Conditions you may not know can be treated by a physical therapist include dizziness, headaches, concussions, and jaw pain.
- In all states, physical therapists can be seen without a doctor’s prescription. This is known as Direct Access.
Support National Physical Therapy Month!
During the month of October, we plan to celebrate the physical therapy profession and the incredible, life-changing efforts made by physical therapists. We hope you will join us in raising awareness about physical therapy by sharing resources we post on our Facebook, and Instagram pages as well as our YouTube channel. Be sure to follow us!
When it comes to your health, you have a choice. Choose more movement. Choose better health. Choose physical therapy.
Celebrate Physical Therapy!
Take action during National PT Month by prioritizing your health. Whether you’re managing pain, recovering from injury, or striving to prevent future issues, physical therapy can help you achieve your goals. Book an appointment today to see how PT can empower you to move better, feel stronger, and live a healthier life.