8 Reasons Why Physical Therapy Is Beneficial

Physical therapy can benefit a person in many ways, especially if they are suffering from an injury or illness that limits their ability to move and function normally. Here are eight reasons why physical therapy can be beneficial, especially for adults and seniors. 

1. Reduced or Eliminated Pain

Injuries and other disorders can lead to acute or chronic pain. Through physical therapy, the patient can learn exercises and strategies to reduce or completely eliminate their pain. Physical therapists will also assess the underlying cause of the pain in order to aid in effective treatment. With physical therapy, patients can potentially lower their dependence on pain-reducing medications that can have negative effects on their overall health. 

2. Avoid Surgery

Surgery can be lifesaving in some cases, but it can also be extremely invasive and can change a person’s life. Recovery periods can be time-consuming, and a patient may have to miss out on work or important life events while they are healing. Surgery can also be very expensive, and some insurance policies may not cover them. Physical therapy can often help restore prior functioning relieve the pain and discomfort associated with an injury or disorder, both which may delay or even avoid the need for surgery. 

3. Improved Mobility

Physical therapists are experts in helping patients improve their mobility. Through physical therapy, adults and seniors can learn to move more freely and easily, which can also help to improve balance and coordination. Physical therapists also assess a patient’s ability to perform daily activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, and create a plan of action to help them achieve their goals with improved mobility. 

4. Prevent or Recover From Sports Injuries

An injury is an athlete's worst nightmare. Some injuries can cause athletes to take lengthy breaks from their sport of choice or have to stop playing the sport altogether. Physical therapy can help to prevent injuries by teaching proper form and technique. Physical therapy can also help athletes recover from an injury quickly and safely, so they can return to their sport as soon as possible. 

5. Recovery From a Stroke

Strokes can cause long-term physical and mental impairments. Physical therapy can help stroke survivors regain their strength, balance and mobility, which can improve their quality of life significantly. Through physical therapy, a patient can learn to walk again, as well as perform everyday activities with greater ease. They can experience a higher quality of life, as physical therapy can help them to regain some of the independence that was lost after their stroke. 

6. Improve Balance and Prevent Falls

Falls can cause serious injuries, especially in older adults and seniors. A simple slip and fall could lead to broken bones or worse. Physical therapy can help to improve balance, flexibility, coordination, and strength, which will significantly reduce the risk of falls. Physical therapists can also assess the home environment for possible fall risks and create a plan of action to prevent any further accidents from occurring. 

7. Avoid Age-Related Problems

Physical therapists can help individuals of all ages to avoid age-related problems. Exercise is known to keep the body strong and supple, which can delay or even prevent age-related issues like arthritis and joint pain. Physical therapists will create a custom exercise plan for their patients, giving them the opportunity to build strength and maintain mobility. 

8. Accelerate Healing After Surgery

Recovering from surgery can be a long and difficult process. Physical therapy can help to speed up the recovery process, allowing patients to return to their daily activities as soon as possible. Physical therapists will create an individualized plan of care that focuses on the specific needs of each patient, in order to maximize their recovery time. 

Contact BrightStar Care Today

If you or a loved one are transitioning from a rehabilitation center, our team at BrightStar Care can help. Our team is dedicated to helping our patients heal and recover quickly, so they can return to their daily lives as soon as possible. Contact us today to learn more. 

https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/physical-therapy-benefits-for-seniors 
https://www.trinity-rehab.com/blog/10-reasons-physical-therapy-beneficial/
https://advancedspinesports.com/blog/10-reasons-why-physical-therapy-is-beneficial/