Physical therapy isn’t just for rehabilitation or athletes in training. There are many reasons why a person might need the assistance of a physical therapist. Maybe they were in an auto accident and experienced painful whiplash or broke a bone. It could be that they received an injury on the job site. Physical therapy is not only helpful in cases of obvious injury though!
Our clinic put together five basic indicators that you need to visit a physical therapist. After you read through these, contact our clinic to learn more about physical therapy and its benefits, or to set up an appointment with one of our movement specialists!
1. You recently underwent surgery.
Even after minor surgery, your body will do its best to heal and return to its natural state. No matter how hard your body works to recover though, you may need some extra help gaining your previous mobility back.
Physical therapy will help you recover strength and flexibility more easily, no matter what kind of surgery you’ve just had. If you have or may spend a considerable amount of time lying in a hospital bed, physical therapy is critical.
During the healing process, it is important to keep muscles and joints as flexible as possible. In order toTo and increase overall stability. You may need to learn new ways of warming up or cooling down after your favorite activities to reduce the chance of pulling a muscle or tendon. They can help you learn how to move in the best ways to prevent future injuries such as pulled muscles.
4. The things you used to enjoy are hard for you to do now.
Have you noticed it’s more difficult for you to do the things you love doing? There may not be any specific injury or pain you’re currently experiencing, but if it’s harder for you to comfortably do the things you enjoy, this is a red flag that you require a skilled physical therapist’s touch!
Whether it’s due to a chronic condition such as arthritis or general wear and tear on your joints and muscles, physical therapy can help you get back to the activities you love.
Physical therapy can help people of all ages live healthier, more active lives. Everything from injuries and surgery to repetitive use and even aging may require physical therapy to get you moving as efficiently as possible. An individualized physical therapy program can also reduce or even eliminate pain.
5. You have a repetitive use injury.
Do you do the same kind of work or activity over and over? You may be one of the millions of individuals that sit in the same position, doing the same type of work for hours at a time. Moving your body in the same way, such as always lifting or pulling items the same way, can result in a repetitive injury, even if you’re standing and moving around.
Tennis elbow or carpal tunnel are common injuries that are often caused by repetitive movements. A physical therapist can teach you simple exercises to treat the condition. A therapist can also show you how to perform repetitive tasks in ways that will prevent future injuries from occurring.
Are you in need of physical therapy?
If you require physical therapy, contact Nebraska Orthopaedic Physical Therapy today to make an appointment with one of our skilled movement specialists. We understand how to recognize and treat a variety of conditions, so rest assured you’re in good hands when you walk through our doors!
