October is Physical Therapy Month
Contributed by Trisha Magee
Physical therapy can be more than just a path to recovering from injury. It can be a holistic approach to enhancing mobility, managing pain, and improving your quality of life. The heart of a successful physical therapy experience is based on functionality, effectiveness, and compassion. These qualities transform the entire person beyond just their physical capabilities.
Functional:
What good is new motion if it can’t be used? Why get stronger if lifting and moving objects still is an impossible task? The goal of physical therapy is to get an individual back to doing the things he or she needs or wants to do. This is individualized and personal because everyone’s goals are different.
Effective:
This starts with research and evidence, of course. Treatments ought to be based on what has been proven to be safe and effective. But in addition to that, treatments also should be based on what is effective for a specific individual since not all people respond the same to specific treatments.
Compassionate:
People don’t just want to be heard. They want to be heard WELL. Our current healthcare system tends to rush people through, often making patients feel like they’re on a conveyer belt of an assembly line. But in physical therapy, therapists have the unique opportunity to develop relationships with their patients, getting to know who they are and what they want to accomplish. They get to spend time with each person, building trust, and becoming personally invested in achieving goals.
As we recognize the importance of physical therapy, let’s celebrate the professionals who live out these principles, helping individuals reclaim their lives, one step at a time. Whether you're recovering from an injury or seeking to improve your mobility, the care of a dedicated physical therapist can be the key to unlocking a healthier, more active future.
Functional. Effective. Compassionate.
These are the pillars to a successful physical therapy experience. If this hasn’t been YOUR experience, I urge you to continue in your search. You are worth the effort.