Physical therapy plays a vital role in recovery, especially for patients with sports injuries, degenerative conditions, and neurological disorders. The effect of physical therapy can be greatly improved when combined with exercise. This is why doctors recommend regular physical activity, and physical therapists also incorporate exercises in their programs.
Here are six reasons why working out and physical therapy make for the perfect healing duo, from pain management to body improvement.
1. Fosters Healthy Bones, Joints, and Muscles
Regular exercise can help you build a robust body. Experiencing bone density loss, having weaker joints, and losing some muscle mass is normal as you age. However, having an active lifestyle can help keep you healthy and slow down the effects of aging.
On the other hand, physical therapy will equip you with programs that specifically target and improve your bones, joints, and muscles. Your physical therapist will design custom routines to help rebuild specific parts of your body. They may also recommend other forms of treatment, such as heat and cold therapy, electrical stimulation, and more.
2. Improves Balance, Mobility, and Strength
Working out is vital for overall body improvement. Experts recommend adults have at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise every week. However, that doesn’t mean you have to go to the gym every day!
Exercising is not limited to the gym. There are many forms of physical activity you can engage in. You can opt for a combination of the following:
- Walking
- Jogging
- Hiking
- Climbing the stairs
- Dancing
- Playing sports
Physical therapists are big advocates of body movement. Ever wondered how physical activities help with balance, mobility, and strength? You can expect your therapist to educate you about the cause and effect of movement in the body. This will help you appreciate your sessions more. Your doctor will also recommend necessary adjustments to your everyday routine to pave the way for body improvement.
3. Prevents Future Injuries
Your fall risk increases as you age due to reduced limb strength and impaired balance. Certain occupations are also more prone to accidents. Thinking about bodily injuries is not pleasant at all. However, regular exercise and physical therapy programs can improve your balance, muscle strength, and mobility, thus minimizing the risk of possible injuries. Specific exercises can also provide joint pain relief.
Furthermore, it is always a good idea to visit your doctor or physical therapist as a form of preventive care. You may think only athletes do this, but every individual should get their physical body evaluated from time to time to ensure they are in great condition.
Your provider can review your daily activities and teach you techniques to avoid injuries. This includes improving your posture and being more aware of your movements and how you execute them.
4. Assists in Controlling Diseases and Conditions
Another benefit of working out is that it helps lower your blood sugar levels, which could decrease your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Exercise helps the insulin in your body work better.
Meanwhile, if you already have one of these conditions, regularly working out and physical therapy can help you manage them better. For instance, physical therapy for diabetes patients includes proper foot care and a routine that considers maintaining blood sugar levels with physical movement.
Some physical therapists are also trained to help patients manage conditions. These usually involve the heart, lungs, or weight management. They can also help you manage neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. Your physical therapist can teach you how movement can become a form of medicine.
5. May Help You Avoid Unnecessary Medication and Surgery
Working out and physical therapy may also help reduce your need for medication and surgery. When it comes to healing, the ideal form of treatment is always non-invasive. With physical activity, your body can heal itself. It can address pain, limited range of motion, scar tissue, and reduced strength and balance from an accident or injury.
Exercise and physical therapy can accelerate your body’s recovery even without prescription drugs or surgery, which could be expensive and come with many risks. In cases where surgery is inevitable, physical therapy and a home exercise program are vital to improving postoperative outcomes.
6. Improves Your Mood and Mental Health
Your mental wellness is equally important as your physical health. Want to hit two birds with one stone? Explore the perfect healing duo — working out and physical therapy. Physical activities release chemicals that relax you and assist in improving your mood. Physical therapy strengthens your body and reduces pain, which is great for your mood and lifestyle.
Reliable Physical Therapists In Blue Springs, MO
Are you ready to explore the perfect healing duo? Here at Core Medical Center, our experienced providers will provide you with expert techniques and comprehensive care. There’s no need to worry about the pace of your recovery anymore. We will help you return to doing the activities you love in the safest and fastest way possible.
Get in touch with us today by calling (816) 427-0201 or using our convenient online appointment request form. Let’s kickstart your workout and physical therapy journey together!