The Surprising Indicator You Might Need Physical Therapy
Most physical therapy patients find their way to the clinic after a fall, an accident, or an injury. While it’s true that physical therapists can do wonders to help with injury rehabilitation; there are numerous other occasions where consulting one can be beneficial. A recent article in Parade magazine highlights one surprising sign that you might need PT: activities and tasks that were once simple have become increasingly challenging.
When Daily Duties Become a Challenge
Our daily lives are filled with reasons to bend, reach, twist, and squat. From walking the dog to unloading groceries, we constantly put our bodies to the task. When we’re feeling healthy, such movements can be rewarding. When our health suffers, though, even the most mundane task can become frustrating.
Physical therapists have the expertise needed to examine the body comprehensively to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort. They can recommend specific exercises to tackle the underlying issue. By assessing your mobility, strength, and coordination, a physical therapist can devise an optimal exercise regimen to ensure you remain active and continue enjoying your favorite activities.
Other Signs It’s Time to Try PT
Visiting a physical therapist for a general checkup is never a bad idea. Physical therapists are skilled in identifying body parts that might be suffering from overuse. Even without pain, it’s possible to cause excessive wear and tear to certain body structures. A simple movement screen conducted by a physical therapist can reveal hidden limitations that might be compensated for in daily activities, helping to redirect you away from potential early breakdown.
A general checkup is especially helpful for those who spend a lot of time at computers, as this can have a negative impact on posture. Daily and work-related tasks often encourage sitting or standing in suboptimal postures, leading over time to certain muscle groups becoming tight or overstretched.
Although the effects might not be immediately noticeable, poor posture can eventually cause discomfort or pain. Physical therapists can conduct an ergonomic assessment of your workspace and suggest setups that promote optimal posture. They can also provide corrective or preventative exercises to mitigate any long-term effects of poor posture.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you notice a decrease in your overall stability or an increase in falls, it’s a good idea to consult a physical therapist. Falls are a significant cause of injury, especially in older adults. Physical therapy, through a combination of strength training and balance retraining, can significantly improve overall stability and confidence in balance.
It’s clear – consulting a physical therapist can be extremely beneficial, even beyond injury rehabilitation. Since you only have one body, it’s important to take the best possible care of it.