Whether you have had orthopedic surgery, a musculoskeletal or neurological injury, or your doctor has recommended that you see a physical therapist, you can look forward to regaining physical strength and flexibility through physical therapy. A physical therapist (PT) can help you improve your overall health and function as well as to control and mitigate your pain levels.
It’s easy to have a begrudging attitude toward physical therapy, but remember how much better you’ll feel! Let’s talk about how you can expect to benefit from physical therapy, and where you can go for world-class physical therapy treatment that you’ll actually look forward to receiving.
How Does Physical Therapy Work?
Physical therapy involves everything from strength training for athletes to recuperation and recovery for people who have had surgery or health conditions. It can help you to control the effects of conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, vertigo, fibromyalgia, sprains, strains, and fractures.
You can often opt to have your physical therapy sessions either at a facility or in the comfort of your own home – where the physical therapist (PT) will come to you. These therapists know how to improvise and how to adapt to various home environments because the goal is to show you exercises and stretches that will strengthen your body. You will be encouraged to continue performing these exercises at home to keep you strong and flexible.
What Will My Program Involve?
Your physical therapy program might involve one or more of the following:
- Heat therapy
- Cold therapy
- Massage therapy
- Active and passive range-of-motion exercises
- Weight training
- Compression therapy
- Vestibular therapy techniques (for balance)
- Ultrasound to stimulate healthy blood circulation
- Electrical stimulation of muscles and nerves to improve function
- Bracing and taping for support
How Can I Stay Motivated for Physical Therapy?
During your physical therapy sessions, never hesitate to tell your therapist when something hurts. Explain your level of pain, tell them what exercises and stretches you enjoy doing, and which ones seem too difficult – or are just unmotivating. Your feedback will help your physical therapist to know to show you other exercises so that you can continue becoming stronger and more flexible.
Having a good rapport with your physical therapist will help you to stay the course because it will actually involve a friendship. Also, playing your favorite music in the background during your exercise may help to keep you focused and interested.
Physical Therapy in Watertown, NY
Here at North Country Orthopaedic Group, our orthopedic doctors and physical therapists work together to get you strong and healthy. Our medical team has many decades of combined experience in both surgical and nonsurgical treatments for musculoskeletal conditions, and we can provide an efficient evaluation of your health condition and explain your options insofar as treatment.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (315) 782-1650 or by filling out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We look forward to serving you!
