How Physical Therapists Can Help Prevent Future Health Problems

Many people only visit a physical therapist when recovering from surgery or a serious injury. However, medical experts suggest that seeing these specialists regularly can actually help prevent health problems before they start. Sharon Dunn, former president of the American Physical Therapy Association, calls physical therapists an underused resource in health care. She encourages people to view them as specialists who can catch movement issues early.

Expert Gammon Earhart compares routine physical therapy visits to regular checkups at the dentist. During a wellness exam, physical therapists review a patient's exercise habits, sleep, and nutrition. They also watch how a person moves to check for unusual posture or movement patterns. These evaluations can help young athletes choose sports that match their body structure and protect distance runners from future injuries.

In the United States, patients in all 50 states can visit a physical therapist without a doctor's referral. However, health insurance does not always cover these annual wellness visits. An evaluation can cost between $150 and $300, which might discourage some people from seeking care. Even so, experts argue that preventing injuries early saves money in the long run and helps people stay active.

Physical therapy can also help older adults who are afraid of falling. This fear often causes people to move less, which makes their muscles weaker over time. Therapists teach patients safe exercises to stand up from the floor, building balance, strength, and confidence. In addition, physical therapists help patients manage weight problems by reducing stress on their joints, helping them stay healthy as they age.

Why might seeing a physical therapist for a regular checkup be beneficial even if you are not currently injured?