Winter PT
When the temperature outside drops, our bodies can react in very noticeable ways. Our skin and hair become drier in response to reduced humidity in the air; our joints can become stiff and muscles more achy. There are several reasons for this (changes in air pressure, body temperature, etc.), but activity is the biggest factor in joint and muscle changes. Most of us tend to be less active during the winter months, which, in turn, makes our bodies more prone to aching, stiffness, and lingering inflammation. But that doesn’t mean we need to cozy up and just live with it. If you are experiencing pain, aching, or stiffness this winter, don’t dismiss it as typical “winter pains.” Now is the time to see a physical therapist.
5 Reasons why you should visit your physical therapist before the end of the year:
1. Understanding Your Pain
Not understanding your pain is a common mistake that could lead to a more serious injury down the road. For example, sometimes we feel pain in one place, even though the cause is elsewhere. This is called referred pain. In other cases, helping you learn to differentiate between “good pain” and “bad pain” will help you learn to care for your own body and understand what it is telling you. And finally, our number one job in helping you understand your pain is determining the underlying root cause. No more symptom chasing, no more guessing and googling. Our PTs will help you zero in on your issue and work to resolve it for good.
2. Preventing Winter Injuries
Common winter injuries include slipping on snow and ice as well as back injuries from snow removal. Not to mention injuries from winter sports like skiing, snow sledding, and ice skating. Many of these injuries can be avoided by taking your time and being more aware of your surroundings. Be sure to wear shoes or boots with good traction, and ensure your sidewalks are clear of ice before walking on them. And don’t push yourself shoveling snow, especially if you have any underlying cardiac conditions. Your PT can design an individualized plan addressing your specific goals and needs. Whether you need to prevent injury on the slopes or want to improve your strength and endurance for winter chores and snow removal, your PT is here to help.
3. Keeping Active
Doing outdoor activities during the winter months puts added stress on our muscles. When you’re cold, the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your body tend to be less flexible, making you vulnerable to strains and sprains. It can also make you susceptible to falls and injury. Our physical therapists will give you helpful tips on how you can stay safe during winter activities – including proper warm-up routines as well as home programs to optimize your flexibility for the outdoor activities you enjoy. If you prioritize staying active in the cold months, see your PT today to ensure you can stay that way.
4. Maximizing Insurance Benefits
In today’s healthcare landscape, timing is everything. If you are like most people, your insurance benefits are renewed after the first of the year. And if you’ve met your deductible for the year, you can see a physical therapist at little to no cost to you. That means if your budget is tight, you no longer have to put off relieving your winter pain. Most people pay into their insurance coverage, whether through their job or via private pay. Put that money to work and USE the benefits you already paid for!
5. Experiencing Our 5-Star Plan for Treating Pain
There’s no denying our abundance of 5-star reviews. At HealthQuest Physical Therapy, we are proud of our patient-centered, comprehensive approach to relieving pain and helping our patients reach new heights – and the results have been phenomenal. Our 5-star plan includes thorough examinations, personalized treatment plans, one-on-one treatment sessions, progressive home programs, and preventative measures for the future. You don’t have to suffer from pain – there is a way to get relief. Winter, spring, summer, or fall, we are ready to help you live your life to the fullest. Schedule a free assessment at a location near you!