October is National Physical Therapy Month

Each October, the American Physical Therapy Association celebrates National Physical Therapy Month as a means of educating the public about the many ways physical therapists and physical therapist assistants can help improve a patient’s quality of life by restoring and improving their ability to move. The goal of physical therapy is to make everyday tasks easier. For example, it may help with walking, going up stairs, or getting out of bed.

Physical therapy enables patients to move easier and may even offer some relief from pain. Additionally, it can improve or restore physical function and fitness level or help with recovery after some surgeries. Your doctor may suggest physical therapy for injuries or long-term health problems such as:

• Back pain
• Tendon or ligament problems (for example, an ACL injury, a meniscus tear or plantar fasciitis)
• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• COPD
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis

At the first physical therapy appointment, a physical therapist will examine the patient and create a treatment plan. Depending on the diagnosed health problem, the physical therapist might create a plan to help with flexibility, strength, endurance, coordination and/or balance. Physical therapy almost always involves exercise. It can also include stretching, core exercises, weight lifting and walking. Your therapist may even create an exercise program to do at home.

In many cases, a physical therapist will work with a patient to manage or eliminate pain without medication and its side effects. Physical therapy may even be an alternative to surgery. Physical therapy can be an evidence-based, cost-effective, conservative approach to healthcare.

Methodist Hospital for Surgery offers an exceptional team of physical therapists and physical therapy assistants who can reduce pain, discomfort and teach new skills for a healthier lifestyle. Staff member Kim Raffety recently completed her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Rosalind Franklin University. Additionally, she is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Therapists and a board-certified specialist in orthopedic physical therapy.

To learn more about the physical therapy services offered at Methodist Hospital for Surgery, please visit www.MethodistHospitalForSurgery.com .