The Importance of Physical Therapy

~ by Richard Sgaglio

October is national Physical Therapy month. As a provider of both inpatient short-term rehabilitation and outpatient rehabilitation services, The Osborn knows the importance of physical therapy (PT) following an injury, accident, or surgery. Just as importantly, physical therapy can also help older adults retain their independence, whether they are managing a long-term illness or just want to improve their strength and mobility. Let’s take a look at how physical therapy helps older adults stay healthy and safe.

According to marketreach.com, physical therapy in the United States constitutes a $34.5 billion industry and the need for PT continues to grow each year. The goal of physical therapy is to help restore and improve functionality, reduce pain, and increase mobility for endurance, stamina, and balance. The last of these is very important as we age because falls are more prevalent in older adults and often can have negative long term and life changing effects. Some falls are even fatal.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of four older adults will fall each year in the United States, making falls a public health concern, particularly among the aging population. Thirty million older adults fall each year—resulting in about 30,000 deaths. Each year, 3 million older adults are treated for a fall injury and can benefit from physical therapy.

Osteoporosis, which is a progressive bone disease characterized by a decrease in bone mass and density, can lead to an increased risk for fractures. It can also be the cause of falls as we age. Physical therapy and regular exercise can help reduce the negative effects of this condition.

Some medications can also cause balance issues because they change the body’s equilibrium.  “Dizziness may be caused, or made worse, by taking a combination of drug products or by drinking alcohol with your medication," says Barb Young, RPh, an editor at the American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacists during an interview with Consumer Reports. "Always tell your pharmacist all of the medications that you are taking or plan to take, including over the counter products or alcohol,” she notes. Certain classes of drugs are more likely to cause dizziness and they are antidepressants, anti-seizure, and certain high blood pressure medications. Always speak with your doctor or pharmacist about any drug that causes you to feel unsteady on your feet – chances are an effective substitute with less side effects will be available.”

Strength training and various exercises provided by a physical therapist can be tailored to the needs of each patient. Physical therapy for seniors has a variety of benefits which can include gaining strength and balance, as well as providing a renewed sense of confidence.  Physical therapy can give seniors back their independence and make daily tasks easier.

Working with a physical therapist for short-term or outpatient rehabilitation will not only reduce pain, but it will also help improve overall strength and ability and reduce the risk for injuries, helping you maintain a higher quality of life.

The information in the above article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.