Many elderly patients experience accidents or injuries requiring physical therapy to heal and increase physical function. If you’re trying to decide if physical therapy is the right treatment for you or your loved one, continue reading to find out why physical therapy is a fantastic method for healing and building strength. Here are five benefits of geriatric physical therapy.
Pain Management
Physical therapy is a fantastic solution for pain management without the use of medications, which can often have undesirable side effects. Instead of prescribing a medication, medical professionals work to cure the root causes of physical pain through strategic physical therapy methods. Reducing overall pain allows patients to have a better quality of life and more ease of movement.
Quicker Recovery
Many patients seek physical therapy to heal from accidents or injuries that have impaired some form of physical function. Physical therapists work to restore these bodily functions, which helps patients function at an optimal level. This process allows patients to experience increased healing and quicker recovery times.
Reduced Fall Risk
Falls are some of the most common causes of injury in elderly individuals. Therefore, minimizing any risk of falling or tripping is essential to preventing injury. Working with a physical therapist strengthens the muscles and body and increases overall balance, which reduces the risk of a fall.
More Independence
Many people of an older age need increased help getting around and completing daily tasks, making it more difficult for them to get things done. Physical therapy serves as an effective solution to this problem because it promotes independence and allows patients to gain enough strength to complete tasks and activities on their own without someone else’s help.
Increased Motor Control
Physical therapists work to improve their patients’ strength, balance, and flexibility, which increases overall motor control and function. This process is essential for geriatric patients, as it allows them to move around more easily and efficiently. Increased motor control gives the elderly a better quality of life, as they’re more able to function and complete daily tasks without assistance.
Now that you know the five benefits of geriatric physical therapy, you can decide if it’s right for you or your loved one. Check out American Hospital Supply’s selection of physical therapy equipment to aid in the healing process.
