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Is it possible that people do not know what physical therapy is and how it can help?
Recently, I was evaluating a patient and at the end of her initial visit, she said to me that she was surprised at how physical therapy helped her.
She stated that whenever she had discomfort she would go to a chiropractor or a massage therapist; she never thought of seeing a physical therapist.
She came to me that day because her personal trainer recommended physical therapy and she thought she would give it a chance, but she did not really understand what physical therapy could do for her.
This surprised me. I assumed most individuals understood why it is important to see a physical therapist. After seeing her I asked several of my other patients if they knew what physical therapy was prior to starting treatment and many replied that they did not know and they only came because their physician told them to see a therapist.
It is time for physical therapists to start educating the public more about the benefits of physical therapy.
So, what is physical therapy? Physical Therapy is a conservative treatment method that accelerates the stages of healing by reducing pain and inflammation, restores function and movement associated with injury by improving muscular flexibility, strength and joint mobility, and prevents future occurrences by educating patients on proper body mechanics and strengthening exercises.
Who benefits from physical therapy? Many and all can benefit from physical therapy. Most physicians refer patients to physical therapy who have been involved in accidents, suffered athletic injuries, arthritis, general deconditioning or strains or for those who have pre- or post-operative concerns. Physical therapy can also benefit individuals who are interested in sports-specific training, pre- and post-pregnancy conditioning, balance and coordination training or for those who simply want a wellness program.
How can you see a physical therapist? South Carolina allows direct access to physical therapy meaning that you do not need a physician’s order to see a therapist. However, most insurance companies will not reimburse unless you see a physician first. If you see a physician and they do provide an order for physical therapy, realize that you have the freedom to choose where you receive your services. Just as you choose your pharmacist you can choose your physical therapist.
So how do you know which therapist to see? Find out if the therapist is an in-network provider for your insurance company.
Score Sportsmedicine is a provider for most health insurances. Look for the type of facility that is comfortable for you. Score Sportsmedicine prides itself on providing individualized, personal care. Some clinics have their therapists see several patients at the same time leaving only a fraction of their attention for you.
At Score Sportsmedicine your needs are important to us. We give you our full attention throughout your session. We provide you with the level of privacy that you prefer. If you want complete privacy during your session, we have individual, private rooms for your treatment.
Score Sportsmedicine has one licensed physical therapist and one licensed therapist assistant so you will not be seen by a different therapist every time you come in for treatment.
We know that continuity of care is important for a quick recovery. We take the time to assess your condition every time you see us and adjust the treatment to your individualized needs. We will educate you on a home program allowing you to have more control over your recovery as well as preventing future occurrences. We treat you like family.
Jodi Krepfle, P.T.
Owner of Score Sportsmedicine
