6 Benefits Of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a form of treatment that uses specially designed exercises and equipment to correct impairments and regain or improve physical abilities. Physical therapy can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. These include neurological problems, cardiopulmonary conditions, sciatica, musculoskeletal birth defects, back pain, neck pain, burns, recreational injuries, work related injuries, vertigo, and urinary incontinence.The debilitating effects of many of these ailments can interfere with every aspect of life. This can eventually take a toll on you, both physically and mentally. One of the main goals of physical therapy is to help patients regain mobility and function of affected areas. This will also improve the patient's quality of life. A major advantage of physical therapy is its ability to treat certain medical conditions that are typically managed with medication and surgery. Physical therapy can help you get your life back and improve your overall health and sense of well being.

1. Avoid surgery

Some patients may choose surgery to treat a medical condition instead of physical therapy. In many of these cases, surgery may provide temporary relief, but it comes with risks. A study published by the New England Journal of Medicine offered evidence to show the effectiveness of physical therapy. The study compared a group of patients that had surgery for meniscal tears and arthritis of the knee with another group that were treated with physical therapy for the same condition.The study was conducted 6 months after surgery, and there were no noteworthy differences as far as functional improvement. This study showed the effectiveness of physical therapy equaled that of surgery. Conditions that cause chronic pain can also be treated with physical therapy instead of surgery. In addition, physical therapy provides the added benefits of increased physical fitness, better mobility, and improved health. Surgery may seem faster and easier, but physical therapy is a less invasive option, with none of the risks associated with surgery.Next