Physical therapists have extensive hands-on techniques that can help reduce pain by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and releasing muscle tension. They also use ultrasound and electrical stimulation modalities to promote healing. PTs are highly trained in understanding how different body systems interact with movement and can assess for more widespread issues than just the painful area. This is known as cultural competence.
Pain Relief
Many individuals who experience pain are quick to reach for NSAIDs or opioid drugs, but these can be dangerous and addictive. For those who want a safer and more holistic approach to managing their pain, physical therapy Ann Arbor, MI, is an excellent option that has been proven in research studies to be just as effective. During your initial evaluation, your therapist will ask you to rate your pain on a scale of 1-10. This will help them determine how much your pain is limiting your life and what types of treatments may be most beneficial. These treatments include massage, ice packs, heat or cold treatments, and electrical stimulation. Some techniques, such as traction or laser therapy, may be used depending on your pain. These modalities relieve spasms and naturally block pain signals in the brain. They also accelerate healing and reduce inflammation. These are short-term solutions that can help you participate in your recovery and get back to doing the things you love.
Improved Mobility
A physical therapist can help improve your mobility, decrease your pain, and increase your ability to engage in your favorite activities again. Your therapist will work with you to develop goals for treatment, such as increasing your range of motion or increasing strength, that are realistic and attainable. Your physical therapist will perform manual therapy to move your joints through their full range of motion, which can help relieve pain and decrease stiffness and tightness. They may use a soft tissue massage, traction, therapeutic exercise or other modalities to promote circulation and reduce swelling. Physical therapy, along with a prescription from your doctor, is one of the most effective and safest ways to manage your pain. Studies have shown that PT is more effective than opioids in decreasing pain and improving function. This is especially true for musculoskeletal (MSK) pain conditions.5 New models of care are increasing access to nonpharmacological care and delivering more patients to a physical therapist than ever before.
Self-Management Skills
Whether managing an injury, a health condition or everyday stress, self-management skills are the key to success. Self-management includes setting and reaching goals, staying focused, managing emotions, and thinking critically in challenging situations. Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is an excellent way to manage pain and improve movement without the use of prescription medications. PT techniques include exercises, massages and treatments based on heat, cold or electrical stimulation. Your therapist will develop an individualized treatment plan for specific movements and activities to help reduce pain, improve movement and strengthen muscles. They’ll teach you how to move your body properly so that you can continue the positive effects of PT at home, even after your regular clinic appointments have ended. This is called a home exercise program (HEP). Your therapist will provide you with your HEP and be available to answer any questions.
Increased Confidence
During a physical therapy session, you will learn the anatomy of your injury and how your body moves. This can help you identify improvement areas or know what to expect in future sessions. For example, if you’re unsure about your posture or how to move around at work or home, your therapist can provide guidance and advice. Your PT can also teach you techniques that will help reduce pain in your daily life. For instance, TENS treatments and hot/cold therapies can decrease the amount of pain you feel. In addition, your therapist can explain the science behind pain, educating you about how acute and chronic pain is different, as well as what factors influence the amount of pain you experience. This can increase your understanding of the root causes of your pain and reduce the fear you may have about moving again. You may even find you can do more than you thought possible!
