Knowledge is power. An essential aspect to injury prevention is fully understanding the problem. Below are helpful introductory guides to build the foundational knowledge to a pain-free life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to get started?
All you need is a signed referral from your physician indicating your diagnosis, problem area, or limitation. Referral form available here (click the bolded letters for the link).
Is physical therapy all about exercising?
Although exercise is essential to prevention, physical therapy consists of various means promoting healing and optimizing one's functional capabilities. This can include hands-on techniques, taping/strapping, modalities, and instruction. If you don't understand the problem, you may be unconsciously making it worse!
What if I do not exercise on a regular basis, or I do not feel safe exercising?
From the frail elderly to professional athletes, proper exercise is necessary to fully enjoy and partake in life. Thus a specific regimen aimed at optimizing your current capabilities while minimizing symptoms will be utilized. As you progress, you will be able to feel the differences and be able to trust your body to safely meet the demands of daily life.
Is physical therapy only for people with injuries?
Physical therapy is the medical field aimed at optimizing how the body moves and functions. Although physical therapy is commonly associated with rehabilitation following an injury, similar limitations can result from day-to-day activities. So if you have difficulty performing a task, have pain with certain activities, or are unable to fully participate in the joys of life, you are a perfect candidate for physical therapy
Where can I get resources and assistance for someone with Cerebral Palsy?
https://www.cerebralpalsyguide.com/
Health & Exercise Links
Symptoms and conditions with an interactive body map
When is it time to seek physical therapy?
Research on exercise and well-being
Exercise reduces your risk of diseases (Cardiovascular diseases, cancer, arthritis, cognitive decline, etc.) and can even help with emotional well-being (reduction of depression and anxiety symptoms.)
Research on food/exercise in relation to risk of injuries and diseases
Exercise in conjunction with appropriate food intake improves one's risk for injuries and diseases, and can even decrease the severity of them if they do occur. This article highlights how this is especially true for brain health and neurodegernative diseases (like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, stroke, etc.), and thoroughly explains the scientific support all the way down to a cellular level.
Research on exercise for bone and muscle health
With 224 trials that included 24,059 patients, exercise helps decrease pain and improves function for people with bone and muscle problems.