By Dee Griffin
Physical therapy is one very important modality that you should be using if you are experiencing a decrease in movement, pain caused by injuries, chronic pain, chronic conditions, or neurological diseases.
Physical therapists work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques to improve mobility and function.
The main goal of physical therapy is to help you regain your physical ability, prevent further injury, and improve your overall quality of life.
The goals of physical therapy should vary depending on your individual condition and needs. Physical therapy should also offer different types of treatment as well. Treatments should include the typically pictured exercise, but should also offer things like ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat, massage, dry needling, laser or light therapy and kinesiology taping.
Physical therapy may not have all these treatments available but there should be enough different treatment options that a very individualized treatment plan can be put in place to help you reach your optimal function.
The first step, and one of the key steps is finding the right physical therapist. Of course, you want to receive physical therapy from a licensed and certified provider. You will also want one that offers either a variety of services as listed above or one with experience in your specific need such as someone that focuses on balance issues if that is what you want help with.
The next step is to set realistic goals with your therapist so that you can see steady improvement in your condition. By consistently following the treatment plan and working with your physical therapist, you can achieve optimal results and improve your overall physical health.
Dee Anne Griffin owns Dynamic Health Solutions, LLC and is a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in the medical field for more than 20 years. She listens and recommends different options to create a unique plan that fits each individual. When not practicing medicine Griffin spends time on her family farm tending to her animals and is very active in her church. Contact her at 803-454-1661. Her offices are located at 169 A Medical Circle, West Columbia.
