5 signs it’s time to see a physical therapist

Published: Tuesday, June 27, 2023
Paul Turner
Physical Therapist

Everyone can benefit from physical therapy at some point in their life. If you’re an athlete, work a desk job or simply aging, physical therapy can help you improve your mobility, reduce pain, and enhance your overall well-being.

But how do you know if you need physical therapy? Here are five signs that indicate it might be time to see a physical therapist:

1. Your daily activities cause you pain

A common misconception with pain is that something is broken, torn, strained or sprained. As we age, it is common for pain to be related more to the idea of tissue capacity and workload management. Or, in other words, supply and demand. Sometimes, pain occurs because our bodies cannot continue to meet the demands placed upon it. A physical therapist can assess and address your deficits to help make your daily life easier. 

2. You’re experiencing pain that won’t go away

If you’re experiencing pain that persists for more than a few days or weeks, it’s time to seek help from a physical therapist. Chronic pain can have a significant impact on your quality of life and may be a sign of an underlying condition. A physical therapist can evaluate your pain, identify the root cause, and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you manage or eliminate your pain.

3. You have limited mobility

If you’re having trouble moving or performing everyday activities, physical therapy can help. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, surgery or a chronic condition, a physical therapist can help you improve your mobility and regain your independence. They will assess your range of motion, strength and flexibility to design a customized exercise plan to help you achieve your mobility goals.

4. You’re recovering from an injury or surgery

If you’ve recently had surgery or suffered an injury, physical therapy can help you recover faster and more effectively. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises and techniques to help you regain strength, flexibility and function. They can also help you manage pain and prevent further injury.

5. You want to improve your athletic performance

Athletes can benefit from physical therapy to enhance their performance and prevent injury. A physical therapist can evaluate your strength, flexibility, and biomechanics and develop a program to address any imbalances or weaknesses. They can also provide guidance on proper training techniques and injury prevention strategies.

In conclusion, if you’re experiencing pain, limited mobility, poor posture, recovering from an injury or surgery or even just looking to improve your athletic performance, physical therapy can do wonders. By working with a physical therapist, you can improve your function, reduce pain and enhance your overall well-being. Don’t wait until your condition worsens – seek help from a physical therapist today. 

Learn More

For more information, visit www.nghs.com/rehabilitation-services