Physical therapy can help people of all ages whether it’s from injuries that can limit mobility, improving medical conditions, or helping increase strength and balance as we age. These issues can make it difficult to get around and do the things you want to do or be independent.
Let’s take a look at four benefits of physical therapy and how it can help you or your loved ones.
Related Blog: Physical Therapy Can Rewire the Brain to Ease Pain
What Types of Physical Therapy Exist?
Most of the time physical therapy is associated with injury recovery, but there are many other forms. Physical therapy can be used for things like cystic fibrosis, prenatal and postnatal care, Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s, as well as pains from diseases like cancer. Here are some different examples of the types of physical therapy:
- Neurological Physical Therapy
- Occupational Physical Therapy
- Geriatric Physical Therapy
- Pediatric Physical Therapy
- Rehabilitative Physical Therapy
- Hand Physical Therapy
- Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
- Vestibular Rehab
- Orthopedic Physical Therapy
- Cardiovascular Physical Therapy
4 Benefits of Physical Therapy
1. Manage Chronic Conditions
Physical therapy can often help anyone who suffers from chronic pain more effectively than medication alone. Physical therapy is ideal for those that aren't good candidates for surgery or prefer to limit their intake of pharmaceuticals. While they affect people of all ages, older adults are particularly vulnerable to chronic health issues such as:
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Fibromyalgia
- COPD
- Incontinence
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Stroke
- Back and Neck Pain
Those who suffer from the pain associated with these conditions can benefit massively from physical therapy because it can help strengthen the muscles that support joints and, as a result, improves joint mobility and reduces chronic pain.
2. Recovery From Injuries and Surgeries
Older adults are at a greater risk of sustaining injuries which can make everyday life difficult. Beyond easing pain and discomfort, physical therapy can speed up recovery from injuries by helping the body heal faster. Common injuries that physical therapy can help you recover from include:
- Hip fractures
- Ankle and wrist sprains
- Rotator cuff injury
These injuries can severely limit your range of motion. A physical therapist can help you restore function to the site of the injury by recommending an exercise regimen that strengthens your muscles and supports joints to improve mobility and reduce pain.
3. Improve Balance
The vast majority of injuries in older adults come from falls. In fact, the CDC states that falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related death in adults 65 and older. Impaired balance, coordination, and weak muscles increase the risk of a fall. Be proactive. Working with a physical therapist before a fall can tremendously reduce these injuries from happening. Physical therapy strengthens your muscles and improves balance and coordination, improving stability and reducing the risk of falling significantly.
4. Regaining Independence and Living a Healthy Lifestyle
As we get older, it’s important to continue to exercise and remain mobile. Taking part in a physical therapy program keeps seniors physically fit and regain muscle strength, balance and coordination, and flexibility, allowing them to participate in their daily life more fully. It’s also a great way for seniors to have guidance and help with their exercises so that they don’t get hurt.
At Moorings Park in Naples, Florida, our highly-skilled team of therapists will keep you physically fit and strong as you age so you can enjoy your life the way you deserve. Our goal is to help you maintain your independence for as long as possible. Visit our website to learn more about Moorings Park Communities and our outpatient therapy and healthcare services. 
