The Best of Both Worlds

February 26, 2020 Off By Dr. Lauren K

What makes Physical Therapists so special ??

When it comes to healthcare PT’s are trained in many different aspects. As someone who personally went to PT school let me assure you that those 3 years were slammed packed in becoming knowledgeable in biomechanics, athletic performances, nutrition, exercise physiology and movement analysis.

I recall lesson plans that even included yoga, pilates and meditation (which became very helpful in keeping peace of mind with all the studying). Physical therapists are movement specialists… PERIOD!

Our ability to analyze the way a person moves during functional activities and then give insight on how to improve that movement in order to reduce strain on the body is impeccable. With courses like PRI, FMS and SFMA its no wonder we are so efficient at what we do.

Even after PT school clinicians continue to further their skills with continuing education courses and certifications to become strength and conditioning specialists, nutritionist, dietitians and so much more.

You not only get a clinician who can rehab your injury, but you get a clinician who can recommend proper nutrition, and can show you the correct mechanics during a deadlift or with sprinting. You get a clinician who can take you on a basketball court and go through lay-up drills with you after a sprained ankle, or take you on the football field and run routes with you cuing you on correct angles post ACL rehab.

BUT THAT’S NOT ALL…

…Physical therapists are also injury risk reduction specialists…

I prefer that term over “injury prevention” simply because I’m not sure we can actually prevent injuries. You can do everything correct and all it takes is someone else running into you resulting in injury. But if you can hon in and focus on proper mechanics during athletic movements, and improving proprioception, you can greatly reduce your risk of suffering those non-contact injuries.

Literally everyone can benefit from consulting with a PT whether they are injured or not. Why not learn ways to stay healthy and reduce risk for future co-morbidities? Need a physical or yearly wellness check? Physical therapists are well capable of not only performing them but also making recommendations so that you can take charge of your health with recommendations.

With all this education and background in evaluating/assessments along side treatment and return to sport knowledge, having a PT in your back pocket is always a great idea. Just ask my family and friends…

WHAT ELSE…

All therapist collaborate with multiple disciplines including MD’s, DO’s, Chiropractors, Athletic Trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, personal trainers, dieticians and sooo much more. And take it from me, we also have other PT’s in our back pockets who we can refer you to in order for your needs to be met.

For instance, I don’t do women’s health… at all… whatsoever… and I wouldn’t even know where to begin in an evaluation for pelvic dysfunction. But I can tell ya who does, and I have a list of people I can refer you to who do know how to treat that and are very proficient.

One of my favorite books to reference is Sue Falsone’s “Bridging the Gap From Rehab To Performance.” She perfectly explains the relationship between rehab linking to rehab integration, and finally performance.

SO WHAT ARE YOU SAYING…

I’m saying that you don’t just get one aspect of rehab when it comes to physical therapy. You get a clinician who is an expert in movement assessments in order to provide an appropriate diagnosis, as well as getting a personal trainer, strength & conditioning coach, and nutritionist all in one.

…It’s the Best of both worlds.