People everywhere have experienced the restorative and transformational effects that physical therapy can have on their daily lives. From strengthening muscles and ligaments following an injury to speeding up recovery times from surgery, physical therapy can be one of the most effective and safe treatments to help regain motion and eliminate pain. Unfortunately, there are many common misconceptions about physical therapy which can discourage people from seeking treatment. To help set the record straight, our Aberdeen physical therapists have examined some of the most common physical therapy myths.
- I need a referral to see a physical therapist: According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), roughly 70% of people believe that they need to have a prescription or doctor referral in order to be evaluated by a physical therapist. This is completely false! All 50 states and Washington D.C. allow patients to be evaluated by a physical therapist without a prior referral, with all but one state (Michigan) allowing some form of physical therapy treatment or intervention without a referral or prescription.
- Physical therapy hurts: Another common misconception is that physical therapy is a painful process. This is backward thinking. Physical therapists seek to reduce your pain and discomfort through the use of stretches, exercises, massages, and other treatments that are within your pain threshold, allowing you to restore movement and function over time.
- Anyone can perform physical therapy: Again, this one is completely false. While many physical therapists also pursue certification in other medical practice areas, not all doctors may legally perform physical therapy. To protect against further injury, physical therapy regimens may only be administered by licensed, board-certified professionals.
- Physical therapy is only for people who have been in accidents: While physical therapy can be excellent for injury recovery, it is also equally effective at pinpointing and preventing medical issues before they ever occur, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, chronic migraines, and more.
- Physical therapy is not covered by insurance: Most insurance policies provide coverage for some type of physical therapy. Likewise, physical therapy can provide the added benefit of helping patients avoid unnecessary treatments, scans, medications, or even surgeries.
Contact Our Aberdeen Physical Therapists
At ProFysio Physical Therapy, every single one of our top-rated Aberdeen physical therapists is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with added specialties in orthopedics and orthopedic manual therapy. As experts in our field, we can provide the custom-tailored and effective treatment you need to improve your quality of life and minimize your discomfort. To find out more about our services, dial (732) 333-6360 or schedule an appointment online today.