PT Myths and Facts
Having the world at your fingertips and access to new information 24/7 is a huge benefit when you really want to learn something new. But we all know that misinformation is also a big problem. You don’t have to search long to find “the guru” of this or that on the internet, usually with a claim they can fix your problem in a few easy steps. How do you begin to separate actual facts from the fiction? Physical therapy as a profession has been around for a long time. Just like other professions it has evolved over that time. What might have been true in the past, could be completely different today. So let’s dive in to the some of the most common PT myths and set the record straight.
Myth: You need a referral to see a PT
Fact: Although many people believe this to be the case, you do not need a referral to be evaluated by a physical therapist. There are some states in the US that have set limits on the type or length of care a physical therapist may provide before a referral is needed. Additionally, some insurance plans require a referral before they will pay for PT services. Many facilities offer cash-based services for clients that either do not have insurance, or would like to seek treatment without a physician referral.
Myth: Physical therapy is painful
Fact: Physical Therapists historically have gotten a bad wrap. And even today, some patients (and even clinicians) believe that if it doesn’t hurt, it isn’t working. We are not saying that the “No Pain, No Gain” mentality doesn’t have its place with some injuries or diagnoses. However, on a whole physical therapists work to minimize your pain and discomfort—including chronic or long-term pain. They work within your pain threshold to help you heal, and restore movement and function.
Myth: Physical therapy is only for injuries or accidents
Fact: Physical therapy is more than strengthening weak muscles after injury or surgery. PT’s evaluate and diagnose issues within your body BEFORE they lead to injury or disability. With advanced musculoskeletal knowledge and assessment techniques PT’s can identify abnormal movement patterns and imbalances within the body and provide corrective programs to prevent unnecessary injuries. We specialize in helping people AVOID surgery, and treat a wide variety of conditions. From headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, frozen shoulder, vertigo, TMJ disorders, incontinence and more, PT is for any issue impacting your quality of life and stopping you from doing what you love.
Myth: My personal trainer or chiropractor can do my physical therapy
Fact: Say it with me, only a licensed physical therapist can provide physical therapy. Physical Therapists are medical professionals who have earned an advanced post-graduate degree and specialize in diagnosing and treating movement related conditions and diseases. There is no substitute for accessible advanced care for your condition. Let’s put it this way: Would you take your car to the bike shop to get repaired? I mean, sure, they have knowledge of gears and belts, but can they understand how the engine works and diagnose your cars’ issues? Probably not. So next time you have an issue causing you pain or limiting your life and function, come to the experts.
Myth: I can’t afford physical therapy
Fact: Most insurance policies cover some form or amount of physical therapy. Many facilities also offer cash-based programs for those without insurance or who do not want to use their insurance. Besides that, physical therapy has been proven to reduce cost by helping people to avoid expensive and unnecessary imaging, prescription medications and surgeries. On the prevention side, PT helps lower your costs by working with you to address conditions before they become chronic and costly. You can’t afford NOT to try physical therapy first!
Myth: Physical therapy is just exercise, I can do it myself
Fact: There is no doubt that you are an active participant in your care and will have a home program to complete. But physical therapy is much more than just exercise! Your physical therapists uses their clinical expertise along with the latest research to create the best individualized care for YOU. That may include manual therapy, neuromuscular re-education (teaching your body and muscles how to do something again), functional movement and gait training, exercise and stretching as well as many specialized treatments like dry needling, blood flow restriction training, cupping, instrument-assisted soft tissue massage, Mckenzie technique and more. Exercise is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to physical therapy.
Physical therapy is accessible, cost-effective, comprehensive care focused on preventing injuries and chronic illness, manage and resolve pain, and helping people recover from any condition preventing them from doing the things they love. If you have questions about how physical therapy could help YOU, call one of our local clinics or request an appointment online at www.HQPT.com.