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Lynden Tribune | Wednesday, October 21, 2015 | Ferndale Record
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Physical therapists help through all of life Lynden physical therapist shares thoughts on importance of National Physical Therapy Month By Joel Sattgast tim@lyndentribune.com
L.M. Montgomery stated: “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” October is a wonderful month. In addition to cooler temperatures ushering in autumn colors, it is also a time to celebrate National Physical Therapy Month. Since the early 1900s, physical therapists have excelled in preventing injuries and pain, promoting physical mobility, restoring body function and equipping individuals for improved health and wellness. Here are five ways physical therapists serve their patients. We Listen Healthcare is changing. But having a clinician who actively listens to you and involves you in your plan of care and recovery should not change. Physical therapists work with and for the patient to restore function and promote wellness. Improving Mobility Did you know that physical activity can improve strength and endurance, control weight and lower your risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes, build strong bones and muscles, improve blood pressure and lower heart rate, while positively impacting almost every organ and
system in your body? Physical therapists promote physical activity and work to restore mobility by improving balance, strength and conditioning, all while educating and equipping you for improved well-being. Reducing Barriers A recent survey by the American Physical Therapy Association found that more than 70 percent of individuals believe a referral or prescription is necessary to begin physical therapy and receive evaluative care. In fact, Washington state currently allows many individuals direct access to their physical therapists without need for a referral. By reducing barriers to care we are able to serve you and your family more efficiently. Decreasing Pain to Improve Function While many people believe movement will increase their pain, physical therapists are specifically trained to minimize pain and discomfort, including those suffering from chronic and long-term pain. By working within your threshold, providing education about pain and management and empowering you to
actively participate in your recovery, restoration of movement, function and daily activities is achievable. Care Throughout Life Whether it’s providing care after a sprained ankle when 5 years old, reducing the risk for ACL injury in a high school athlete or improving balance, coordination and strength at age 95, physical therapists work throughout our lives by listening, evaluating and collaborating with you and other interdisciplinary healthcare providers to create a plan of care focused on your goals and enabling you to “keep moving.” Happy National Physical Therapy Month. Jim Sattgast is a licensed physical therapist at Lynden Family Physical Therapy. He can be reached at joel@lyndenfamily physicaltheraphy.com.
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