What is Physical Therapy?

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapists are movement specialists. They partner with patients to identify and address anything that might be holding them back from moving and functioning at their best. In that way, they are like mechanics.

A Good Mechanic

Like cars, people can get into “accidents” and also require maintenance to run properly over the long haul. If a car is driven especially far and fast or if it’s an older model, it usually requires even more frequent tune-ups to run smoothly.

Sometimes, it’s even necessary to bring your car in for preventative maintenance so it doesn’t have a costly and unexpected breakdown.  

Like mechanics, PTs start their appointments by learning everything that's currently going on beneath the hood. They also frequently use their hands to uncover and resolve issues.

This analogy helps people understand the purpose and technical side of PT, but it is unlike a car that gets passively “fixed.” Mechanics do something to a car while PTs do something with someone…patients are equal partners in the process.  

A Great Coach

To convey the relationship side of the process, it helps to think about the player-coach dynamic. The coach sees the big picture and knows the obstacles ahead. He or she is there to tap into each player's “why” and light the fire in them to give their best. In essence, our motto — Get Better. Be Better.

Coaches build players’ confidence, discount their excuses, help them solve problems and influence their thinking and choices off the field. In turn, the player is fully dialed in.

No one can do the physical and mental work for them. When a player follows the process, they experience the joy of both performance and pride.