What is the benefit of physical therapy after an injury?

Recovery from a serious physical injury often requires a well-rounded treatment plan. Your medical team may suggest a variety of resources including physical therapy to help you regain strength and confidence.

Once you reach a certain point in your recovery, you may struggle to see the value of physical therapy. However, knowing its benefits may give you an incentive to continue drawing upon its value as you heal.

Prevention

Continuing to do activities you enjoy when you have not reached a full recovery will put you at a much higher risk of reinjuring yourself. At the very least, you could trigger chronic pain because your body does not have the ability to move the right way. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, unexpected injuries can take a toll on your mental and emotional health. Illnesses including depression, PTSD and severe anxiety can happen when you suffer continuous physical pain.

Physical therapy can help you learn exercises that take into account your condition. These exercises may facilitate increased mobility, strength and independence so you can prevent worsening health.

Motivation

When you notice progress in your physical condition, you may feel more motivated to continue healing. Physical therapy facilitates your recovery to its maximum opportunity. Depending on your injury and its severity, you may require ongoing therapy throughout the remainder of your life. However, this regular support can aid you in maintaining an optimal level of independence and lower your risks of suffering from a sedentary lifestyle.

With physical therapy, you can take more control of your physical injury and resolve to overcome setbacks. Over time, you may need to modify your routine to maintain its effectiveness so you can recover to the greatest possible extent.