Why Physical Therapists Are Different Than Other Medical Professionals

Many people are under the impression that physical therapists just treat injuries and provide therapy rehab to the disabled. The reality is the modern physical therapists do this and much more and they are very different from other medical professionals.

A recent study showed that a large percentage of individuals view physical therapists as professionals who provide therapy rehab for people who are injured or are disabled as the result of a chronic illness. Another percentage of people are under the impression they must be referred to a physical therapist by a physician.

The truth is that physical therapists are well educated professionals that cover a wide variety of specialized fields. They also offer services which are much different than other medical professionals and it is unnecessary to be referred to seek the expertise and advice of a physical therapist.

Physical therapists do help people overcome injuries and disabilities however most people are unaware that a physical therapist can be extremely beneficial with a comprehensive health and wellness program.  They can design a personalized program for every individual to help restore health and increase the chances of living a longer life. Physical therapists can also help people prevent future injuries and health problems.

When a physical therapist is compared to a physician, the physical therapist conducts a complete evaluation of health status and designs a plan that suits the specific health needs of the individual.  They monitor a patient’s health and provide guidance through every step of the program.  If they discover any health issues which require medical attention they work with other medical professionals to refer the patient to a person who is qualified to handle the issue.  

Physicians use a different approach to treatment which includes medication where a physical therapist will take all the necessary steps to provide treatment through a holistic approach.  Whatever the physical therapist is unable to resolve through holistic strategies they refer the patient to a physician who prescribes medication.  On the other end of the spectrum a physician will refer patients to a physical therapist for specific treatment.

This comparison represents a classic example of how physical therapy is different from other medical professions.  With advancements in medicine and new technology most people are amazed when they discover how many health benefits a physical therapist can provide and that personalized health and wellness programs are not just for the well-to-do.  Do some research to find out what a physical therapist does and how they can promote health and wellness.  It is highly likely that an appointment with a physical therapist will follow.

About Carol Lane:

Carol Lane has been a health-and-wellness expert for over 18 years.

Lane served as a physical therapist in the Army for four years, ensuring the men and women fighting for our freedom remained fit and well. Lane has also spent seven years working in various rehab facilities and home health agencies helping children and adults take care of themselves.  

In 1998, Lane established her own practice, Results Physical Therapy. Results initially specialized in older adult exercise programs and manual therapy, and then expanded to preventive care for adults of all ages, which allows patients to handle problems before they become serious as well as maintaining the health they have.  In 2006, she expanded her practice to the Greater Bangor and Dexter areas in Maine.

Lane has a B.S. in physical therapy from Daemen College, and a master’s degree in interdisciplinary studies, and a minor in healthcare administration from San Marcos State University.  Her patients say they like the opportunity to take better care of themselves in a friendly, enjoyable environment which she and her team strive to achieve on a continual basis.  Visit http://www.resultsphysicaltherapy.org