No matter how well you take care of your body, at some point in your life you will probably experience some type of injury. When you experience an injury or specific conditions, it can be really beneficial to see a physical therapist. Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the prevention, evaluation, and treatment of conditions that affect the functionality of the body. They work with patients of all ages, from children to seniors, and can help with a wide range of injuries and conditions. Their goal is to help their patients gain back some of the functions that they may have lost. Below are some of the most common reasons that you may need to see a physical therapist at some point in your life.
Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains are among the most common injuries treated by physical therapists. Sprains occur when ligaments, which connect bones to each other, are stretched or torn. Strains occur when muscles or tendons, which connect muscles to bones, are stretched or torn. These things can happen while playing sports, exercising, from a fall, or even while doing things in your everyday life. Physical therapists can help patients recover from these injuries through exercises that improve their range of motion, flexibility, and strength. They will be given exercises to help strengthen those muscles and tendons.
Back Pain
Back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. There is a good chance that you know someone who is experiencing back pain. Physical therapists can help patients with back pain through exercises that improve posture, flexibility, and core strength. It can also be beneficial to build muscles that can help support your back. Such as your core and glutes can help support your back. They may also use manual therapy techniques, such as massage or spinal manipulation, to relieve pain and improve mobility. There are a lot of different things that can be done in order to help with back pain.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints and can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can make simple tasks such as walking, typing, or other tasks difficult and painful. It may not seem like a big deal but can cause a lot of grief in one’s life. Physical therapists can help patients with arthritis through exercises that improve range of motion, flexibility, and strength. They may also use modalities such as heat or cold therapy to reduce pain and inflammation. The goal is to make their life easier and their symptoms less noticeable.
Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, leading to damage to brain tissue. Physical therapists can help patients recover from a stroke through exercises that improve strength, balance, and coordination. When a stroke is experienced, the individual may have to relearn simple things such as eating, walking, or things such as brushing their teeth. Seeing a physical therapist after a stroke can be very beneficial and can help them gain back the function that they had previously.