If you think physical therapy is only about rehabilitation after surgery or recovering from an accident, think again. Physical therapy is fundamentally about prevention, routine assessments, and maintaining overall well-being.
“We’re the best-kept secret in health care,” said Sharon Dunn, past president of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). This sentiment is echoed by several professionals in the field, such as Roger Herr, current APTA president, and Gammon Earhart, associate dean for physical therapy at the medical school of Washington University in St. Louis, who emphasize the role of physical therapists in proactive health management.
Physical therapy often has a one-dimensional image. It’s commonly associated with recovery after knee surgery, back pain, or injury. Patients typically go to a physical therapist for an evaluation, exercises, and advice on moving more efficiently. However, this is just one aspect of the profession.
Physical therapist Tyler Detmer highlights the broad potential of physical therapy, stating that its benefits go far beyond the rehabilitation phase. In fact, many professionals advocate for seeing physical therapists in the same way as we see dentists: regular appointments for health checks, even when no problems are present.
These appointments could include an examination of one’s health history, current physical activity levels, nutrition, and sleep, alongside an analysis of movement patterns. Postural alignment, flexibility, and muscle imbalances are key areas of focus. A physical therapist’s ability to pinpoint emerging issues in mobility can prevent long-term problems and injuries.
Annual wellness visits are gaining traction, with Herr advocating for them across all age groups. Whether you’re a young athlete or someone looking to age gracefully and independently, physical therapy can provide crucial support.
Good news for patients is that in all 50 states, you can now see a physical therapist without needing a referral from a physician or surgeon. Unfortunately, the downside is that these preventative visits are often not covered by insurance. In some regions, an annual wellness exam with a physical therapist might cost around $150 out-of-pocket. However, considering the potential for avoiding costly treatments and enhancing quality of life, these visits can be seen as an investment in long-term health.
Another key role of physical therapists is in helping manage risks associated with aging, such as falls. Simple interventions can boost confidence in elderly individuals, reducing the fear of falling and enhancing their mobility.
Physical therapists also play an essential role in managing obesity-related issues. Excess weight can affect movement and strain joints, and physical therapists help patients by addressing these challenges, sometimes even before surgery, in what’s called “prehab.”
Thus, it’s crucial to consider the full spectrum of physical therapy’s potential — it’s not just about recovery, but also about prevention and maintaining health through proactive measures. By changing the public’s understanding of physical therapy, more people can benefit from these services and improve their quality of life.
For more information on the role of physical therapy in preventative care, visit American Physical Therapy Association or explore the benefits of regular wellness visits.
