By Keith Scott PT, DPT
Physical therapy is changing, evolving, improving, and becoming more effective. This is good news for patients and physicians. It’s somewhat different from the traditional role and behavior of a physical therapist (PT). Traditionally, PTs have treated primarily postoperative patients, or patients who had failed other treatments, were willing to try anything to get relief, or simply wanted a last resort when narcotics or injections failed.
Going to a PT often occurred six months after an injury. Treatment typically included electrical stimulation with a hot pack, ultrasound, and a one-size-fits-all stretching and exercise program. For example, an individual with a history of lower back pain may have conventionally tried injections, anti-inflammatories, or activity modification before being seen by a PT. Once that patient was seen by a PT, he or she would have been given advice, generic home exercises, and palliative modalities (electrical stimulation and a hot pack). If the patient didn’t respond to this cookie-cutter approach, then the therapist might state that the patient may not be a good candidate for PT. This is frustrating for both doctor and patient. It seems unreasonable and illogical that a patient can expect to get better after a few treatment sessions of passive care.
Those outdated treatment approaches have been abandoned for good reason. A growing focus on research/outcome-based treatments and improved access has allowed the profession to be on the front line in the war on pain. Oftentimes, physical therapy is used as a cost-effective way to manage symptoms immediately after injury or for a wider variety of injuries. Due to current research and improved outcomes, physicians are using physical therapy as a primary treatment option for lower back pain, plantar fasciitis, knee pain with runners, shoulder discomfort, tennis or golfer’s elbow, sciatica, women’s health issues (incontinence, interstitial cystitis, pelvic floor dysfunction) and many other conditions. A good physical therapist will tailor the treatment program to the individual needs and impairments of the patient, based on current research findings rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
That person with lower back pain can now often be seen in conjunction with or before other medical treatments (injections, anti-inflammatories, etc.), and will be provided with up-to-date clinical reasoning for performing manual (hands-on) therapy, specific stretches and exercises that are tailored to their specific issue (because not all lower back pain is the same), as well as advice for activity modification. As treatment progresses, the patient will be given increasingly challenging activities and exercises that allow the patient to return to his or her prior level of activity, prevent recurrence and avoid long-term use of prescription pain medication and surgery. Occasionally, optimal outcomes will not be as forthcoming. In those situations, the PT may need to modify the treatment plan and/or advocate for the patient.
Patient satisfaction in physical therapy is highly associated with high-quality interaction with a therapist. A therapist who spends adequate time listening, as well as explaining, instructing, and connecting with patients is more likely to provide an exceptional experience and improved outcomes. Fortunately, PTs are allotted the time necessary to develop these high-quality relationships and be attentive to the patient’s specific signs and symptoms. Because all patients are unique, their care should be specific to them.
Today’s physical therapy may be just the answer for your health issue(s). Physical therapist Keith Scott and his team are ready to assist you. For more information, contact Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers at 309-683-6900 or visit www.acceleratedrehab.com.
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