Physical therapy (PT) is often used to help an injured person recover from his injuries. For many older adults, however, PT is not just a way to rehabilitate, but also to stay in shape. Friends and family should be aware of the different ways by which PT programs by South San Francisco urgent care centers can benefit seniors, as well as the different options these offer.

Physical Theraphy

A WebMD feature explains how PT can benefit the elderly:

“When a person gets injured or has a prolonged illness, doctors often recommend physical therapy. In the case of older people, though, sometimes this is seen as just something to “try.” This could not be further from the truth. Physical therapy is “A-quality” therapy for many conditions affecting older people, from Alzheimer’s to urinary incontinence.

According to Jennifer M. Bottomley, PhD, MS, PT, president of the geriatrics section of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and adviser to the surgeon general, one of the main things that brings older people to the physical therapist is a fall. “They want and need to maintain their independence,” she says.

According to APTA, physical therapy can restore or increase strength, range of motion, flexibility, coordination, and endurance — as well as reduce pain. Another important role is to retrain the patient to do everyday tasks.”

Physical therapy allows patients to slowly strengthen muscles, rebuild their flexibility, and restore their range of motion. These PT benefits can also be excellent for older adults who want to achieve a higher activity level. Since such techniques put minimal stress on the body and allow seniors to acclimate at their own pace, PT can alleviate fears of injury and increase the possibility that seniors will lead an independent life.

When you talk to a physician about the possibility of doing PT, he will first discuss the options available to you. For instance, aside from working with a physical therapist directly, he may assign you certain exercises to do at home. During your discussion, he will carefully outline the recommended motions and explain the benefits of each.

Physical therapy is offered at trusted South San Francisco urgent care centers like U.S. HealthWorks Medical Group.

(Source: Physical Therapy a Boon for Seniors, WebMD)