Physical therapy is a key component in injury prevention and rehabilitation

We at APEX Orthopedics and Sports Medicine utilize physical therapy regularly as an integral part of our treatment plans as we care for the Kansas City area.

So, what is physical therapy?

Physical therapy is a tool for patients to utilize in their rehabilitation program regardless of whether or not you have had surgery. It can help improve a joint, such as a shoulder or knee, or a body system (such as the back) by utilizing various strengthening and mobility techniques. Doctors developed physical therapy to improve your strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Therefore, helping to prevent injury and rehabilitate.

Physical therapists utilize various techniques in rehabilitation. Often you will be responsible to work through a home exercise program as well as perform exercises in clinic. They may employ various manual techniques such as ASTYM. This helps to regenerate healthy soft tissue and reduce unwanted scar tissue, TENS therapy, massage, and ultrasound.

Now you’re probably saying that’s all great, but what will it really do for me?

Well, we’ve seen first-hand the difference physical therapy can make in the outcome of a patient’s rehabilitation. If you want to return to an active lifestyle, you will have to be willing to work at it. Physical therapy is not always easy, but it is effective. Here are some of the ways physical therapy can help as you recover from an injury.

• Physical therapy can help you do what you can’t do yourself. Often patients are limited in their active range of motion due to an injury or surgery. However, physical therapists can help to increase that range through passive movements.
• Physical therapy can be a conservative option when working to avoid surgery. It also, when surgery is inevitable, can be used both before and after to enhance the outcomes of that surgery.
• It can help to minimize pain without the long term use of medication.
• Physical therapists can help to modify activities based on your needs and pain level so that you can continue to stay active and mobile while limiting pain.

So you’ve committed to therapy, but how do you pick your therapist?

Of course the medical team at Apex Orthopedics and Sports Medicine will give you suggestions based on your physical needs. Still, often we find if you choose a therapist that is close and convenient for you, you will be more likely to attend your sessions. In turn, you will be more successful.

Don’t be afraid to ask your friends or relatives for recommendations.  If they had a great experience, there’s a good chance you will too.

Not all therapists are created equal though. If you don’t bond with your therapist, it’s okay to go elsewhere. You are more likely to work harder at your rehabilitation exercises if you respect and enjoy your therapist. We want you to have the best results you can, so don’t be afraid to ask us to recommend someone else.

Remember physical therapy is an integral part of the rehabilitation process, and as with any aspect of an injury or surgery, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Our goal at Apex Orthopedics is to work together with you the patient and with your physical therapist to help you return to an active and healthy lifestyle.