"Can physical therapy make things worse?": 3 misconceptions about PT

Have you never seen a physical therapist, but you’ve heard some strange ideas about its efficacy? You may be interested to learn about some common PT misconceptions. There are many misconceptions about physical therapy, like “physical therapy can make things worse.” We’re here to dispel some of those. Then, we'll tell you what physical therapy is really all about.

What are some of the most common misconceptions about physical therapy?

There are several misconceptions about how physical therapy works. Most people who believe things like “physical therapy will just make things worse” don’t get the treatment they need because they’re misinformed. That’s why it’s so important to dispel these common misunderstandings. You can read through some of the most common misconceptions about PT listed below: 

• “Physical therapy will be painful” — One of the top misconceptions about physical therapy is that it will be painful. Many people assume that their sessions will become painful and end up feeling worse than when they started. This is totally false. Physical therapy isn’t meant to cause pain. It’s a treatment method that is performed within a patient’s threshold for pain. It’s common for patients to experience temporary physical discomfort during a session, but physical therapy shouldn’t cause you any significant or lasting pain.

• “Physical therapy can’t prevent surgery” — Another misconception that people have about physical therapy is that it can’t prevent someone from needing surgery. Physical therapy can actually be useful for those hoping to avoid surgical procedures. In instances where quality of life and mobility are impaired, physical therapy can be utilized to restore range of motion and function and reduce pain. It’s entirely possible for surgery to be averted with physical therapy treatment. 

• “Physical therapy will make things worse for me” — Some patients initially believe that physical therapy will make their condition worse. This idea is misguided. Physical therapy most often makes a patient’s condition improve significantly. Studies show that it’s effective at treating pain and functionality in patients with conditions like chronic low back pain and countless other conditions.

What are some of the major benefits of physical therapy?

There are several key benefits of physical therapy. To learn more about why physical therapy can be a useful treatment method, keep reading the descriptions of the benefits listed below:

• Physical therapy can help you heal from a major injury — One of the major benefits of physical therapy is that oftentimes it can help you heal from an injury. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment method for those who have traumatic injuries, old injuries, overuse injuries and more.

• Physical therapy can help you build strength — Another major benefit of physical therapy is that it can build strength and fitness even if you’re not dealing with an injury. Many people think that PT is only for those who are injured, but it can be useful for injury prevention and strength building too.

• Physical therapy can improve mobility and balance — Physical therapy can also help improve your mobility and balance. If you’ve had a stroke or you’re experiencing impaired mobility and balance, PT can be a useful tool to improve that.

• Physical therapy can benefit those with chronic pain — Another major benefit of physical therapy is that it can be useful for those who deal with chronic pain. Whether you experience chronic joint pain or low back pain, physical therapy is likely to help target the source and reduce inflammation, swelling, stiffness and pain.

• Physical therapy can improve athletic performance — One more major benefit of physical therapy is that it can improve athletic performance. If you’re someone who regularly plays a sport or is physically active, you can seek guidance from a PT specialist who can enhance your play performance.

Alliance PTP can help you find an expert physical therapist near you 

You likely don’t have to go as far as you think to find out how physical therapy can be a great option for treating pain or helping with health goals. After all, Alliance Physical Therapy Partners has practices across the country where you can find the physical therapy you need. 

And if there isn’t one near you, don’t worry! We also offer highly effective and affordable virtual care in nearly every U.S. state. 

So, don’t keep letting your symptoms affect your day-to-day life. Get in touch with our team today so we can help you find the physical therapy that’s right for you.