As we continue celebrating Physical Therapy Awareness month, we are addressing some common physical therapy myths that we’ve heard over the years.
- PT is just for old people that fall –
People of all ages and doing pretty much any activity are likely to get injured at some point. However you move (or don’t move), you’re likely going to have pain at some point. And a physical therapist can help with that. - PT is only for people that broke a bone –
Injuries can happen to tissues other than bone – muscle, tendon, ligament, nerve… there’s a lot of things that can hurt! All of these tissue injuries are commonly seen and effectively treated with physical therapy. - PT is only for surgery recovery –
Physical therapy will almost always happen after surgery, this is true. BUT, physical therapy can also help prevent you from having to have surgery in many instances. There is a great deal of evidence that suggests that for long term outcomes, many common surgeries are no better than physical therapy for pain and function.
- PT is only for athletes –
Athletes tend to need physical therapy more frequently because they often push their bodies. However, many of us do the same thing! We don’t think twice about working in the garden for the first time in the spring when the most activity we had over the winter was baking cookies and eventually taking down holiday decorations. - PT can only be done through the place I have my surgery –
This physical therapy myth is not only false but also illegal. As a patient, you have the ability to go wherever you want to, which may very well be the business that performed your surgery. However, if you have a preferred physical therapist, just ask for the referral to go there and you’re ready to rehab!
Got questions about any physical therapy myths? Feel limited in what you’re able to do? The staff at Limitless Physical Therapy in Eugene, OR and Albany, OR can show you how to discover your future without limits. Follow us on Facebook to get more great information not just during Physical Therapy month, but all year round.
***The above information, including text, images, and all other materials, is provided for educational purposes only, and not as a replacement or supplement to professional medical advice. Please contact a certified healthcare professional or your primary physician for any personal concerns.