We often associate physical therapy with recovery from injuries, but did you know it’s also a powerful tool for preventing them and managing chronic conditions? At Tristar Physical Therapy, we believe in the power of movement and its pivotal role in maintaining overall health and well-being. Today, we’re going to share some insights into how physical therapy can help you unlock your full potential.
Living with chronic pain from an injury, trauma, or medical condition can make daily tasks and physical activities challenging. However, by regaining mobility, strength, and flexibility, you can engage more easily with these tasks and effectively manage your pain. Physical therapy, particularly when guided by a trained therapist, can help reduce chronic pain and improve specific areas of the body for long-term use, minimizing the need for pain management medications, such as prescription opioids.
Now, let’s dive into some of the common goals and benefits of physical therapy:
- Reducing, managing, or minimizing pain: Physical therapy provides a safer alternative to more complex treatments like surgery or the use of prescription opioids.
- Improving mobility and flexibility: Specific stretches and exercises can help prevent or reduce the impact of stiffness or injuries, and minimize the severity of conditions like osteoarthritis and back pain.
- Enhancing strength and recovery: If you’ve experienced an injury, surgery, or a stroke, targeted exercises can guide you toward recovery.
- Increased balance and preventing falls: Gentle strength and flexibility exercises help decrease the chances of falling and help older adults maintain their independence.
- Improved overall health and fitness levels: Increasing movement helps to strengthen our heart and other muscles, contributing to disease prevention, weight management, and a variety of other physical and mental health benefits.
In addition to physical therapy, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help you navigate chronic pain. Regular physical activity aids in managing symptoms and preventing complications of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, and other health issues. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends adults stay active for at least 150 minutes per week and include two days of muscle-strengthening activities. Talk with your healthcare provider to determine appropriate exercise activities and whether physical therapy can help manage your chronic pain condition.
At Tristar Physical Therapy, we’re committed to helping you live your most optimized life, free from pain. Our caring team of PT and OT professionals uses evidence-based practices to help you on your road to healing.
Now, isn’t that something worth exploring?
