Top 10 Myths About Physical Therapy
Let’s dive into the most common misconceptions we hear about physical therapy!
#1
Myth: Before Going to PT, I need a Prescription from an MD
TRUTH: You do not need a prescription for a physical therapy evaluation in NJ. Save yourself the time and money of running around to MDs and get started with your recovery right away. Click here to read more about “Direct Access.”
#2
MYTH: I need imaging like an MRI or X-ray to determine what’s wrong
TRUTH: Physical Therapists take pride in being one of the few areas in medicine that still rely on a thorough exam and your unique story to uncover the full truth of what’s going on. Imaging can be misleading (research shows that over 50% of us with no back pain have a disc herniation on an MRI), so DPTs use their evaluation as a more reliable starting point to diagnose your actual issue. This initial exam and conversation reveals so much more than a still image ever could.
#3
Myth: I only need Pt if I’m severely injured or had surgery
TRUTH: You probably know you need PT for severe pain or injury, but almost 90% of us are living with other issues that could seriously improve with PT. The body is like a car and responds best when issues are addressed early before they turn into something more serious. From challenges like a sore shoulder to sciatica to headaches or low back pain, PT can help you heal when you may not have even thought it was possible. PT is also the best option if you want to improve performance or prevent injury even when you aren’t currently experiencing pain.
#4
I need to go to a chiropractor for back pain
TRUTH: Your physical therapist is highly skilled in reducing/eliminating back pain while improving or restoring movement. In fact, for one type of lower back pain, physical therapy was shown to work just as well as surgery while being much less risky. The focus in physical therapy is on a long term recovery (not just temporary relief) that you can manage yourself. This is accomplished through a comprehensive plan that includes lifestyle changes, home exercises, and techniques learned in PT to manage flare ups.
#5
The pain i feel in my knee is coming from my knee
TRUTH: Pain can be really deceiving! Maybe you’re a runner who’s spent time online researching knee pain because your right knee has been been bothering you lately. However, when you see a PT it’s quickly determined that your knee pain is actually coming from weak glutes and not your knees at all. This is why the best way to start any long term recovery is determining the true underlying issue during your comprehensive physical therapy evaluation.
#6
Myth: Iron Physical Therapy is only for athletes
TRUTH: Iron is for everyone! Although we are a preferred provider for athletes because all of our DPTs are competitors themselves, we work individually with each and every patient to move better, feel better, and achieve your own goals.
#7
Surgery is my only option
TRUTH: Good news— physical therapy is your best hope to avoid surgery! PT has been shown to be as effective as surgery in treating a wide range of conditions—from rotator cuff tears and degenerative disk disease, to meniscal tears and some forms of knee osteoarthritis. It is always well worth trying a more conservative and affordable option like physical therapy before even considering surgery.
#8
MYTH: Physical Therapy is the Same As personal training
TRUTH: Physical therapists are focused on restoring the highest level of function and movement by treating or preventing pain, injury or weakness. Although physical therapists utilize targeted exercises to help build strength, endurance and flexibility, that is just one part of the comprehensive treatment you receive. Click here to read more about what happens during physical therapy.
#9
Your PT will tell you to “rest” and stop doing what you love
TRUTH: If you’re afraid to go to PT because you’ll be told you have to stop doing what you love, then worry no more. Most of the time, continuing to move will be a big part of your recovery. You may need to reduce or eliminate particularly aggravating activities for a period of time, but lots of modifications and alternatives are always provided so you can keep moving.
#10
With all the online resources, I can just Treat myself at home
TRUTH: Maybe your shoulder has been bothering you, so you Google it and determine that a Theragun and 5 exercises will do the trick. We certainly hope that’s the case, but the generalized advice available online is not able to take into consideration your full medical history, unique symptoms or individual goals. If you don’t see improvement after a few days of trying something at home, we recommend seeing your physical therapist before things might get worse. Our ultimate goal is to equip you with all the tools you need to prevent and manage your issue; however, to do that most effectively, you need a proper diagnosis and a plan that’s designed just for you.
#11
MYTH: Physical Therapy is the same as Massage
TRUTH: Although physical therapists utilize the highest level of hands-on techniques, that is just a small part of the comprehensive treatment you receive in PT. Click Here to read more about the 5 elements that make physical therapy distinct.
#12
Physical therapy is Very painful
TRUTH: Unlike surgery or even injections, physical therapy should not be painful. In fact, the goal is to provide noticeable relief in the first few sessions. However, you may experience some temporary soreness and discomfort as a result of your PT exercises or manual therapy. Many of the movements in physical therapy may be completely new to you so your body just needs time to adjust. Don’t let this discourage you! Your body will be getting stronger every session, and you are going through an amazing transformation.