Physical therapists must complete years of education and training before gaining a license to treat patients. Naturally, they know a lot about the human body and treating the various injuries and conditions that affect it.
As you can imagine, there is probably a lot you don’t know about what a physical therapist does that goes into making an effective treatment. Below are a few secrets you should know about physical therapists to better understand who they are and what they do.
1. Having the right tools makes a big difference
Many physical therapy treatments involve massage, hands-on therapy, and guided exercises and stretches. These can usually be completed with no more than the guidance of your physical therapist and your cooperation. However, physical therapists have an arsenal of tools and equipment at their disposal to help treat pain and rehabilitate your condition.
Some of the equipment you might come across during your treatment include:
- Hot and cold machines
- Electrical stimulation
- Ultrasound
- Kinesio tape
- ASTYM® treatment
- Dry needling
- Aquatic pools and more
What is and isn’t included in your treatment depends on your condition and personal factors, like medical history or age. Your physical therapist can determine the best equipment to be used in your treatment.
2. Your physical therapists can tell a lot about your habits and lifestyle
If you have a bad habit, you should let your physical therapist know. Odds are, he or she will find out anyway. And, what they know about you can help them develop treatments.
Physical therapists can spot the signs of bad habits like smoking, excessive drinking or lack of exercise. Plus, they can spot signs of other issues like abuse or depression, and they can help you get the help you need.
3. Pain is a reaction to three things
Pain is generally a reaction of the body to a change in pressure and temperature or the presence of inflammation. When it comes to treating your pain, your physical therapist will address each of these areas to help reduce it.
Try to identify your pain in these terms to help your physical therapist know more about your pain and how to treat it.
Contact Excel Sports and Physical Therapy
Are you suffering from a chronic debilitating condition? Have you recently been injured? Excel Sports and Physical Therapy is here to help you. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.
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