Dealing with a Cancer Diagnosis

What Does Physical Therapy Treat and How Do You Prepare for It?

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Physical therapy is a non-invasive treatment that helps restore your physical function and improve your quality of life. It is beneficial for people of all ages and can help you recover from an illness or injury faster. If your doctor has advised you to undergo physical therapy, you may not know what to expect.

Here is some important information you should know about physical therapy.

Common Conditions Physical Therapy Treats

Many people are surprised to learn how many different health conditions physical therapy can treat. By undergoing therapy, you may be able to avoid riskier surgical procedures. Here are several conditions that would benefit from physical therapy:

  • Sports injuries
  • Stroke
  • Back pain
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Headaches
  • Urinary incontinence 
  • Whiplash
  • Arthritis

How to Prepare for Your First Appointment

If your first physical therapy session is coming up, you may feel a little nervous. However, if you know what to expect and prepare properly, it can ease your nerves. During your first appointment, your physical therapist will ask you questions about your medical history and the current condition you are dealing with. He or she will perform a physical examination to get a better idea of your strength, balance, range of motion, and posture. Then, your therapist will determine the appropriate treatment plan, such as manual therapy or exercise.

Here are a few ways to get ready for your first appointment.

  • Wear Comfortable Clothing: During your appointment, your physical therapist may ask you to remove some of your clothes so that he or she can examine certain areas. That is why you should wear loose, comfortable clothes that are easy to remove.
  • Arrive Early: It is best to arrive at your first physical therapy appointment several minutes early. This way, you will have enough time to fill out the medical forms before your physical therapist asks you to come into the examining room.
  • Write Down Your Questions: Chances are that you have many questions for your physical therapist. For example, you may wonder how long your treatment will last and if you can do anything at home to help your recovery. You may also want to know if there are any side effects. To avoid forgetting your questions, jot them down in a notebook, and bring those questions to your appointment. 

It is normal to feel a little nervous for your first physical therapy session. However, if you follow these useful tips, you will have a successful appointment. 

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