Physical therapy is extremely common for bone injuries such as ankle, wrist, and hip fractures. It is extremely important to keep the joint from stiffening, as this could limit your long-term range of motion and mobility. In order to keep the area moving without causing further damage, however, you should consult with a specialized physical therapist. Here are four reasons to use a physical therapist while you are recovering from a bone injury:
1. Reduce Pain and Swelling
Whether you are recovering from a major surgery or a bone injury of any kind, consider including physical therapy in your treatment plan. Medicine can reduce swelling, but it can also mask the source of the pain or the root of the problem. Physical therapy can help to pinpoint problem areas, which can then be targeted with specific therapies. In general, the exercises, stretches, and targeted massage treatments that your physical therapist may use can greatly reduce the amount of pain and swelling in the area.
2. Alone, You Could Cause More Harm Than Good
If the idea of seeing a physical therapist regularly does not appeal to you, you may be tempted to take control of your recovery. This could include looking up stretching exercises online, or attempting to massage the affected area by yourself to relieve pain. Although it’s important to stay involved throughout the process, you could easily do more harm than good by attempting to fix things yourself. Seek advice and recommendations from a doctor or physical therapist before touching or moving the injured area.
3. Therapists Offer Specialized Treatments
A skilled physical therapist can help you recover from your bone injury by using a series of stretches, exercises, and massage techniques. Physical therapists are specially licensed to practice as therapists, which means they have the knowledge required to help you heal without accidentally causing problems or deepening your injury. Your physical therapist will gradually help you regain your flexibility and range of motion, keeping things lined up so that your bones will heal properly. In addition, physical therapy centers include a variety of equipment designed for healing and rehabilitation.
4. Preventative Care and Whole Body Well-Being
Your physical therapist will likely be interested in more than your bone injury. He or she should be invested in your overall health and will look for ways to help you avoid causing a similar injury in the future. Your therapist may suggest daily stretches and exercise that can be used to increase your overall flexibility. Besides, adding to your exercise routine will strengthen your muscles, tighten your core, and help prevent against heart disease and other illnesses.
To learn more about how a physical therapist can be helpful in recovering from bone injury, visit us online. We can be found at www.suburbanortho.com.
