09 Jul What Do Physical Therapists Do? We Answer This (and How They Can Help You!)

What Do Physical Therapists Do?

You may have a vague idea of what physical therapists do, and if you’ve never been to see a PT it could be confusing. We tell you what physical therapists at Body One do, how they help patients, and why you might just skip the appointment with your primary doctor and head for the PT instead.

Who Physical Therapist Are

Physical therapists at Body One are experts who treat issues of the musculoskeletal system. That means issues of movement, balance, pain, and more that affect your muscles, connective tissue, and bones. Physical therapists are typically doctors in one of several disciplines like: Doctor of Physical Therapy, Doctor of Health Science, etc.

What Physical Therapists Do

Physical therapists at Body One will examine and assess your issue, and may also look at any material you’ve brought with you from a referring doctor. This part is really important: because of Direct Access laws, you can choose to see a physical therapist without a referral – in Indiana, it’s 42 days! After 42 days, your PT’s office will work with your doctor and insurance company if a referral is necessary for future appointments. Since your physical therapist has a specialized understanding of both the condition and recovery of many musculoskeletal issues, often by visiting your physical therapist first you’ll end up in the right place and save time and money.

Physical therapists utilize a wide variety of treatment such as:

• Manual therapy: Hands-on manipulation designed to stretch and move your body to restore proper movement and function, and reduce discomfort.
• Graston Technique ® : Specially-designed tools are used to treat scar tissue and fascial (tissue below the skin) restrictions.
• Dry needling: Using very small, slender needles to target trigger points where muscles are irritated, tight, and movement is often restricted.
• Home Exercise Program: Showing and demonstrating specific exercises you’ll perform at home to help with your recovery.

Physical Therapists Educate

A very important part of your physical therapist’s day is spent in educating patients. Body One’s PTs spend a lot of time ensuring that clients understand their condition, how to best avoid discomfort, how to help improve recovery, what may have contributed to injury, pain, and more, and answering any questions their patients may have. While your PT has an extensive anatomical background, they’ll be sure that you understand in terms that make sense and so you can put your treatment plan to work!

If you’re ready to find a physical therapist to get your recovery started, look no further than Body One Physical Therapy. We’re locally-owned and operated, with three locations serving Central Indiana: North Indianapolis, Fishers, and Zionsville. Our team of caring, expert physical therapists treats clients of all ages and backgrounds and we’d love to help get you on the road to recovery. Don’t wait to feel better: call us today!