Embrace Movement! Celebrating National Physical Therapy Month in October

By: Marie Serrado

Every October, we celebrate National Physical Therapy Month. This month-long celebration recognizes the invaluable contributions of physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, and their commitment to helping individuals restore and improve their mobility, function, and overall quality of life. It also gives us the opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of Physical Therapy but also the importance of physical activity and the roles our PTs and PTAs do for our community. This year’s theme according to APTA.org (American Physical Therapist Association) is the value of PT. Join us in this blog as we dive into the world of physical therapy, exploring its significance, the dedicated professionals behind it, and how you can benefit from their expertise.

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical Therapy also known as Physiotherapy is a commonly recommended rehabilitation strategy to help people find ways in managing conditions or injuries that affect their daily lives. Physical therapy primarily treats orthopedic conditions such as sports injuries or musculoskeletal conditions such as tears, trauma injuries, sprains, fractures and joint dislocations. Physical therapy can also help manage motor and sensory skills to patients with Parkinson’s disease. They can even treat both acute and chronic pain.

• • • Acute pain; Pain that comes and goes,

    • Chronic Pain: Pain that lasts at least 3 months.

What are the benefits to working with a Physical Therapist?

There are countless benefits as to why working with a Physical Therapist will help you in the long run. Whether that is for pain management or even helping you reduce the risk of future injuries, physical therapy is a valuable resource. Here are some key benefits to consider:

1. 1. 1. Decreases long-term and short-term pain and disability: Physical Therapists create an individualized plan that will help alleviate and manage your needs and wants based on what you may have.

      2. Improved Mobility: Physical therapy helps enhance your range of motion and flexibility, making it easier to perform daily activities and regain independence.

      3. Injury Prevention: By addressing muscle imbalances and weaknesses, physical therapists can help you prevent future injuries and maintain optimal physical function.

      4. Education and Awareness:They educate you about your condition, helping you understand the root causes and providing tools to manage it effectively.

      5. Avoiding Surgery: In some cases, physical therapy can help eliminate the need for surgery.

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to enhance your physical well-being, working with a physical therapist can provide numerous long-term benefits. Their expertise and guidance can contribute to a healthier and more active future.

In Conclusion:

In conclusion, National Physical Therapy Month in October serves as a reminder of the positive impact physical therapy can have on our lives. It’s a time to celebrate the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to help individuals regain their strength, mobility, and independence.

References

1. What Is Physical Therapy?” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 4 Sept. 2023, www.forbes.com/health/body/what-is-physical-therapy/.

2. National Physical Therapy Month.” APTA, www.apta.org/national-physical-therapy-month. Accessed 29 Sept. 2023.