|
Do You Need to See a Physical Therapist Before Starting an Exercise Program?
As we head into the new year, many people are evaluating their exercise routine, or lack of one!
Nobody disputes the value of exercise. As part of a comprehensive weight-loss program, it's a necessity. As part of a general fitness program, its benefits are many. And for everyone, some form of exercise is essential to help us stave off the effects of aging, to keep us limber and flexible and simply to foster a sense of well-being.
Health experts caution that the basis for setting up any exercise program is simple common sense. Our normal level of activity, our age, general health, weight and other factors should be taken into consideration before starting a
regular exercise program.
The key is that physical therapy can be utilized to help people become more mobile, more flexible and stronger so they are able to tolerate exercise, thus allowing them to do more.
While most individuals can start a program without professional supervision, some people may want to consult a physical therapist before beginning an exercise routine. Answering these questions can help you decide if the advice of a physical therapist is warranted:
- Do you have anxiety regarding beginning or increasing the intensity of an exercise program because of past injuries?
- Are you apprehensive about how intense your exercise program should be because of unusual aches and pains?
- Is pain a limiting factor for you during day to day activities?
- Do you consider yourself inflexible?
- Do you have difficulty lifting heavy things?
- Are you deconditioned from injury, illness or surgery?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, it's probably a good idea to consult with a physical therapist before embarking on a program of exercise. While the right kind of exercise is certainly beneficial, movements that are overly aggressive can cause unnecessary strain and do more harm than good. And nobody wants that.
Call MPT with any questions or to set up an appointment: (574)233-5754 or email [email protected]
|
Stop the Therapy Cap!
If Congress does not take action by December 31, 2013, the therapy cap will again be imposed on Medicare-covered physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech language pathology services. We need to take action NOW to ensure the cap does not go back into place.
Please contact your members of Congress and ask them to co-sponsor legislation to repeal the therapy cap once and for all. Follow this link and you can do this in a few easy steps!
STOP THE THERAPY CAP!
|
