After being injured it can be hard to get back on your feet. Loss of mobility, range of motion, and chronic pain can be life long ailments unless they are properly treated and rehabilitated. That is why many doctors prescribe their patients visit a physical therapist.
Despite the immense popularity and success of physical therapists, some people still are confused about the services provided by physical therapists. This is made worse by a myriad of myths and misconceptions about what physical therapy is and who practices it.
In order to help demystify this vitally important service, we have taken some of the most common myths surrounding physical therapy and exposed them for you.
- MYTH: Physical Therapy isn’t real medicine.
While it is true that physical therapists do no need to go to medical school to practice, that does not mean that physical therapy isn’t real medicine. In fact, physical therapists use more a detailed knowledge of muscles and anatomy to relieve issues ranging from hip pain and knee pain to rehabilitation after a stroke. - MYTH: Only the Elderly Need Physical Therapy
The people that physical therapy serves are as broad as the problems that it corrects. While many of the patients who take advantage of physical therapy are those recovering from a stroke or heart attack, another mainstay are those suffering from sports injuries — especially those suffered by high school and college athletes. - MYTH: Insurance Won’t Cover Physical Therapy
This is not necessarily true. In fact, many insurances will cover the cost of physical therapy, especially when prescribed by a doctor. It is important that you reach out to your insurance provided to find the specifics of your plan. - MYTH: Physical Therapy is Basically Just a Massage
While there is some element of physical therapy that includes massages, there is much more that goes into the procedure. Tools like aquatic therapy and specially designed equipment to extend range of motion are very commonly used.
Physical therapy is a very helpful tool to help people get back on their feet after an injury, whether they suffer from knee pain or a loss of motion. Hopefully, this post has helped dispel some of the rumors and myths surrounding it.
