Physical Therapy Myths – Debunked!
When someone mentions “physical therapy” or if your physician recommends it, what comes to mind? Hopefully, your first thoughts aren’t negative, but it is natural to have some apprehension if you’re unfamiliar with physical therapy, its benefits, and what to expect during your appointment.
In the blog post below, physical therapist Greg Ketz, PT, DPT, of Orthopaedic Hospital of Wisconsin Shorewood Physical Therapy, shares the 5 most common misconceptions about physical therapy he has come across in his 15 years of clinical experience. He provides further explanation about the profession to help ease any doubts you may have about booking your first appointment.
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You need a doctor’s referral to see a physical therapist.
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Myth:
In many places, it’s common to think that a doctor’s referral is required before seeing a physical therapist.
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Truth:
This might be the most common one on the list. In several states (Wisconsin included), you can see a physical therapist directly without a referral, a practice known as direct access. This makes it easier to get timely treatment and avoid delays in recovery. As always, check with your healthcare provider and insurance carrier. In my experience, once you’ve established a good relationship with a physical therapist, they can serve as a quick (and very knowledgeable) orthopedic source. A physical therapist is typically easy to connect with and has the expertise to decide whether you should continue with physical therapy treatments or be referred to an appropriate healthcare provider.
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Physical therapy is only for injuries.
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Myth:
Many people believe physical therapy is only useful for recovering from sports injuries or surgery.
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Truth:
Physical therapy helps with a variety of conditions, not just injuries. It can be beneficial for managing chronic pain, improving mobility, preventing falls, and even helping with conditions like arthritis, neurological disorders, and postural problems. Some of the most frequent individuals I see will come in before a planned event (5K, marathon, golf season, ski season, hiking trip, etc), regardless of age. I like to put them through a screening process and biomechanical evaluation before the training or season. You can’t prevent all injuries, but this helps target areas of weakness or mobility concerns that may put you at an increased risk for injury if not addressed.
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Physical therapy is painful.
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Myth:
People often assume physical therapy is an extremely painful process.
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Truth:
One of the more important things I believe some people learn from going through physical therapy is improved body awareness regarding pain, soreness, and/or fatigue. It was something I had to learn myself early in my career – that this can be a learned behavior for some people. While some discomfort may occur, physical therapists aim to help you feel better, not worse. We tailor treatments to your pain level, gradually increasing intensity to improve function and strength over time. It’s about controlled progress, not enduring agony.
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Physical therapy is only for older adults.
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Myth:
Many people associate physical therapy with older individuals or those in retirement age.
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Truth:
Physical therapy can benefit people of all ages, from young athletes to children with developmental delays, to middle-aged workers dealing with repetitive strain injuries. It’s about maintaining or improving your mobility and strength, regardless of age.
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Physical therapy is a quick fix.
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Myth:
Some believe that a few sessions will solve their problems immediately.
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Truth:
Recovery is often gradual. Depending on the issue, physical therapy may take weeks or months to fully resolve the condition. Consistency in following the plan is key to achieving long-term results. I like to think that your in-person physical therapy experience is just the foundation to help you achieve whatever your ultimate goals are. Whether it was a rigorous three months of post-operative knee replacement PT, or you were seen just a few times to help adjust or progress your home workouts for shoulder pain, your future orthopedic health success hinges on your commitment to your health, and not anyone else.
Understanding the facts behind these myths can help you approach physical therapy with the right expectations and a better understanding of how it works for your overall health. Physical therapy can be one member of your overall health maintenance.
To make an appointment with Greg or any other orthopedic specialist, fill out OHOW’s “Request and Appointment” form online, or call (414) 961-6800.