The Myths about Physical Therapy
People everywhere are experiencing the transformative effect physical therapy can have on their daily lives. In fact, as experts in the way the body moves, physical therapists help people of all ages and abilities reduce pain, improve or restore mobility, and stay active and fit throughout life. But there are some common misconceptions that often discourage people from visiting a physical therapist.
It’s time to debunk 7 common myths about physical therapy:
1. Myth: I need a referral to see a physical therapist.
Fact: No, In India a licensed Physiotherapist can evaluate, diagnose and also give treatment without any outside referrals. A physical therapist can treat patients in the Neurological, Orthopaedic, Sports, and Paediatric populations.
2. Myth: Physical therapy is painful.
Fact: Physical therapists seek to minimize your pain and discomfort—including chronic or long-term pain. They work within your pain threshold to help you heal, and restore movement and function. The survey found that although 71% of people who have never visited a physical therapist think it is painful, that number significantly decreases among patients who have seen a physical therapist in the past year.
3. Myth: Physical therapy is only for injuries and accidents.
Fact: Physical therapists do a lot more than just stretch or strengthen weak muscles after an injury or surgery. They are skilled at evaluating and diagnosing potential problems before they lead to more serious injuries or disabling conditions—from carpal tunnel syndrome and frozen shoulder to chronic headaches and lower back pain, to name a few.
4. Myth: Any health care professional can perform physical therapy.
Fact: Although 42% of consumers know that physical therapy can only be performed by a licensed physical therapist, 37% still believe other healthcare professionals can also administer physical therapy. Many physical therapists also pursue board certification in specific areas such as neurology, orthopaedics, sports, or women’s health, for example.
5. Myth: Physical therapy can be expensive.
Fact: Most insurance policies cover some form of physical therapy. Beyond insurance coverage, it has proven to reduce costs by helping people avoid unnecessary imaging scans, surgery, or prescription drugs. It can also lower costs by helping patients avoid falls or by addressing conditions before they become chronic.
6. Myth: Surgery is my only option.
Fact: In many cases, it has been shown to be as effective as surgery in treating a wide range of conditions—from rotator cuff tears and degenerative disk disease to Meniscal tears and some forms of knee osteoarthritis. Those who have recently seen a physical therapist know this to be true, with 79% believing that it can provide an alternative to surgery.
7. Myth: I can do physical therapy myself.
Fact: Your participation is key to a successful treatment plan, but every patient still needs the expert care and guidance of a licensed physical therapist. Your therapist will leverage his or her specialized education, clinical expertise, and the latest available evidence to evaluate your needs and make a diagnosis before creating an individualized plan of care.
If you have any questions or want information on managing your orthopedic issues don’t hesitate to contact us.
Total Orthocare
59 A, MNR Complex,
Near Steel Factory Bus Stop,
DoddaBanaswadi Main Road,
Bengaluru-560043 Phone: 080-4370 1281 Mobile: 9591618833