The success of a rehabilitation program can vary from individual to individual, and even from practitioner to practitioner; however, one fact emerges: beneficial results from a physical therapy program is evident across a wide swath of physical as well as mental processes.

But, what does that mean? What can physical therapy offer the patient in practical terms? Here are some of the reasons patients turn to physical therapy:

Recovery of mobility following a stroke, injury, or loss of function

The loss of function and mobility as the result of a stroke, injury or an age-related condition can be recovered or improved with a physical therapy program. An expert physical therapist can tailor a program to suit the needs of the individual to maximize mobility gains.

Less need for medications

Less is always more when it comes to the need for medications. Physical therapy patients require fewer medicines because they feel healthier. They need fewer pain medications, muscle relaxers, sleep medications, and medications for other medical conditions, thus resulting in fewer side effects and dependency.

Stronger immunity system

The immune system is a body’s first defense system against sickness, immune diseases, and infection. Physical therapy results in a stronger immune system, meaning better health, fewer ailments and a lower frequency of illness.

Better balance, posture and spinal flexibility

Better posture keeps bones in proper alignment, which creates bone strength and in turn creates a framework for efficient muscle usage and better balance. An aligned spine means the ligaments have less stress and the joint surfaces won’t wear abnormally. Damaged joints are a common cause of pain, including arthritis, bursitis, rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, strains, and other aches.

Spinal and joint flexibility reduces the incidence of injuries from falling and improves health and vitality overall.

Fewer hospitalizations and surgeries

Physical therapy can reduce or eliminate the need for surgery in many cases. It also reduces the need for hospitalizations, both due to the direct results of physical therapy and as the result of better overall health.

Better and more restful sleep

Better sleep translates to a host of health and energy benefits, including better memory, creativity, less depression, a healthier heart, less stress, fewer accidents, and more.

Improved nervous and vascular system function

A poorly tuned body results in poor nervous and vascular system functions. Nervous system function through unobstructed pathways results in better health and fewer problems with the endocrine system, which produces hormones and neurological functions. A better vascular system improves circulation and sensation for diabetes patients.

Patients who believe some of the benefits described are things that could enhance their life should consider a physical therapy program. Patients who have access to physical therapy enjoy better overall health, increased energy and a better quality of life. The type of treatment, as well as the frequency and intensity, will vary not only from patient to patient but also are a reflection of the health conditions affecting the patient who comes seeking a physical therapy program.

If you are looking for occupational or physical therapy, vestibular rehab, wheelchair training, learning to walk, unweighting, or other services in the Phoenix area, please call Touchstone Rehabilitation at 602-277-1073