When most people think of physical therapy (PT), they think of it as a type of acute injury or post-accident rehabilitation. However, PT isn’t just for increasing people’s strength, flexibility, and range of motion following an accident—it also plays an important role in managing chronic conditions.
The effectiveness of physical therapy for chronic pain varies by individual, depending on the underlying condition. However, many people find it an indispensable tool in managing their pain.
Does Physical Therapy Work For Long-Term Pain?
Physical therapy uses various techniques, such as exercise, manual therapy, heat therapy, cold therapy, and electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and inflammation. A physical therapist can also provide education and guidance on posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle modifications to facilitate long-term relief and reduce your risk of future injuries.
However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of any particular treatment in managing chronic pain depends on each case, so a thorough evaluation from a physical therapist is necessary.
Chronic Conditions That Benefit From PT
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Neurological Diseases
- Residual Symptoms From Past Injuries
Musculoskeletal Disorders
PT is especially useful when treating conditions that affect the muscles, bones, and joints. These include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, muscular dystrophy, fibromyalgia, and more. If you’re experiencing chronic back pain, neck pain, knee discomfort, or shoulder pain, consider putting physical therapy at the top of your priority list.
Neurological Diseases
Physical therapy can help reduce the chronic pain associated with neurological conditions such as demyelinating polyneuropathy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and other progressive degenerative diseases affecting the central nervous system. It can also prove indispensable in treating sciatica and pinched nerves.
Residual Symptoms From Past Injuries
Sadly, sometimes the pain doesn’t go away after an automobile crash, workplace accident, sports injury, or major reconstructive surgery. However, all is not lost, and there are steps you can take to reduce your suffering in the long term. PT can help you find relief from some of your chronic symptoms even years after the initial accident.
Finding Care That’s Right For You
By working with a physical therapist, primary care physician, and possibly some other specialists, you can design a custom-tailored pain management plan to attain a better quality of life even while living with a complex chronic illness. Contact Centennial Sports & Physical Therapy today to set up your first appointment with our compassionate care team.
