According to a new study, roughly half of the patients seen by physical therapists are being treated for ailments not related to rehabilitation.
Blain Stimac, owner and CEO of Professional Therapy Associates, said, “Physical therapy is widely recognized for its effectiveness in helping patients recover and regain full mobility after an injury, severe illness or surgery. However, it’s a common misconception that physical therapy is only used for rehabilitative purposes- statistically, one in two patients visit us for reasons other rehab. Our physical therapists are experts at rehab therapy, but they also treat patients for conditions ranging from chronic pain, arthritis and repetitive strain to headaches, sleep problems and balance issues. They also provide strength, flexibility and endurance training to athletes and individuals looking to improve their overall health and fitness.”
Physical therapy can be a useful tool in treating many common ailments like back pain. Having a chiropractor correct the immediate issue will ease the pain for a short period of time; however, unless an effort is made to strengthen and stabilize the area of the back that is affected, the pain will return. Therapy can also aid those that suffer from arthritis by helping patients to learn different movements, exercises and stretches that will minimize pain and stiffness while strengthening muscles that support the joints.
As a back pain doctor, I know how important it is to address the underlying issue of different types of chronic pain to strengthen core muscles and keep the pain from returning. If you suffer from a type of chronic pain, speak with a pain management doctor to aid in reducing your pain on a daily basis.
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