Physical therapy is an essential part of total patient care, especially when recovering from injury or surgery. Having a good quality of life depends on our health, and if people are in constant pain and suffering, life can be difficult to navigate. Being a physical therapist can be very rewarding. Helping people to attain or regain the ability to walk or carry out daily life can lead to a great feeling of personal satisfaction. Physical therapists report one of the highest job-satisfaction levels, as Forbes ranked physical therapists as having one of the “Ten Happiest Jobs” in the country.
Physical therapist’s work with patients one-on-one, track their progress through treatment, and really make a difference in their lives, by getting them back on their feet, and lifting their spirits, encouraging the patient to keep moving forward. Whether the patient's problem is a result of injury or disease, the physical therapist is a rehabilitation specialist with one goal in mind: helping patient’s recover. PT’s job entails helping their patient with movement and exercise, reducing pain, restoring optimal function and mobility, and preventing further disability.
Most importantly, physical therapists are highly educated experts in the movement and function of the human body, called kinesiology. Therapeutic exercise and functional training are the cornerstones of a physical therapy treatment plan. Depending on the particular needs of a patient, in order to promote proper movement and function, physical therapists will work with individuals to prevent loss of mobility by developing fitness and wellness oriented programs, for healthier and more active lifestyles.
Physical therapists can make all the different in your treatment and recovery process. Attitude and motivation are two important psychological factors that often affect the outcome of a situation. PT’s are trained to encourage their patients, helping them reach their goals, whether they are long-term or short-term.
When considering a physical therapist, and the qualities they should possess, look for a PT who has compassion and good working relationships with their whole medical team. You want a physical therapist who is knowledgeable on how everything in your body works together, not just the specific condition or injury you originally asked for help with. A good physical therapist listens well, and follows through with plans you made together at the beginning. Their treatment plan should be supported by current clinical evidence, and implemented through up-to-date treatments.
Finding a physical therapist can seem difficult, but being prepared by asking questions and doing a little research can help you find the right fit. You want a healthcare provider that you can develop a long-lasting relationship with, as they will be the one there, motivating you along the way to a full recovery.
Each day, at OrthoUnited, our team of licensed physical therapists and physical therapist assistants help patients of all ages work to regain function, alleviate impairments, increase fitness, and improve their quality of life. We all need a little motivation and structure in our lives at one point or another, and having an expert team show you the way to the top is invaluable.
To learn more about how physical therapy may be able to help you live a more pain free life, call OrthoUnited at (844) 469-2663, or use our online appointment request form.
