It is estimated that nearly nine million patients per year participate in a physical or occupational therapy program. Yet many remain unfamiliar with these therapies and are led astray by misconceptions believed by the general public. Here, Carthage Area Hospital takes a closer look at four myths you may have heard about physical or occupational therapy and why they are simply not true.
1.) MYTH: All healthcare professionals are trained as physical therapists.
This sentiment is shared by roughly 37% of patients in the United States, but it is far from the truth. While they work in conjunction with a variety of healthcare professionals, physical therapists are the only ones that can administer physical or occupational therapy. Considered experts of body movement, physical therapists specialize in the following:
- Pain management
- Endurance
- Strength
- Mobility
- Posture
- Balance
- Coordination
- Lifestyle management
Physical therapists must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from an accredited institution and pass the national licensure exam in order to treat patients. In addition, a number of physical therapists choose to continue their education and become board certified in specific areas of medicine, such as neurology, women’s health or orthopedics. This enables them to specialize in specific injuries or causes of pain.
2.) MYTH: Physical therapy hurts.
More often than not, the reason you are receiving physical or occupational therapy is because you are in pain. One of the biggest misconceptions is that the therapy will cause you even more pain. However, the fact is that physical therapists go above and beyond to prevent that from happening.
Your therapist should always maintain open communication before, during and after each session. They will ask you about your pain levels and modify treatment to help you gain the greatest benefit without causing further discomfort. In fact, a physical therapist can offer a number of methods to reduce your pain, from hot and cold therapy and stretching to ultrasound, laser or light therapy and more.
3.) MYTH: Physical therapy is less effective than surgery or medications.
Many believe they are better off with surgery and medication, but that’s because they don’t understand the full scope of physical and occupational therapy. Though surgery is sometimes necessary depending on the severity of your injury or condition, a number of studies have proven that physical therapy is safer and more effective than prescription painkillers – and even some surgeries. Plus, if you do require surgery, you’ll more than likely be prescribed physical therapy during your recovery.
5.) MYTH: Physical therapy is too costly.
While it’s true that physical therapy comes with a bill, most insurance companies cover these services. If your plan doesn’t, physical therapy still delivers benefits that can save you money in the long run. For instance, physical therapists help patients avoid unnecessary medications, imaging tests and even surgery with the proper treatment to affected areas. Studies have also shown that patients can save up to 60% on medical bills if physical therapy is done early enough in their treatment. This is all possible thanks to solving the issues of patients before they worsen and become a more expensive problem.
See How Physical Therapy Can Benefit You
If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of physical therapy, contact Carthage Area Hospital’s Therapy Services today. With three convenient locations, it’s easy to get the care you need from NYS licensed physical and occupational therapists specializing in sports rehabilitation, hand therapy, pre- and post-surgical care and more. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 315-493-1340 today.