7 Key Benefits of Physical Therapy for Chronic Pain Conditions

Your pain may result from a health condition, an injury, or other reasons. Chronic pain is one of the most common reasons people in the United States seek medical care. The CDC estimates that around 50 million adults in the US have chronic pain.

At Orthocenter, we seek to help you live a full, active, and painless life. Our highly qualified, expert providers frequently recommend physical therapy to patients who are experiencing chronic pain. We find that these seven benefits of physical therapy are key to treating chronic pain. 

1. Physical therapy is individual treatment

Just like when you see your doctor, they talk to you one-on-one about your specific issues, when you see your physical therapist, they assess you and design a plan based on your unique situation. This ensures that your plan addresses your weaknesses and helps you overcome them. 

2. You may be able to avoid opioids

The problems with opioids have become clearer with time. Treating pain with opioids, especially long-term, is not optimal, from addiction to uncomfortable side effects. Physical therapy may be an effective, drug-free option for you.  

3. Physical therapy is safe

Because physical therapists are highly trained, they understand what activities are safe for you and know how to help you build strength slowly and safely. Physical therapy allows you to avoid the dangers of opioids while keeping you safe from overworking your body in ways that create more pain.  

4. You gain knowledge

Most people attend physical therapy for a limited time but learn exercises, stretches, and ways of moving that help lessen pain for a lifetime. It’s empowering to know that you can ease your pain. 

5. You may regain lost mobility

If your chronic pain has led to less mobility, physical therapy may help you regain it. For example, if you have knee osteoarthritis and your knee no longer bends as deeply as it once did, physical therapy may help. Your therapist can teach you how to improve and maintain your range of motion.  

6. Your balance will likely improve

Many types of chronic pain may result in poor balance, and part of your initial evaluation is assessing your balance. If there’s an issue, correcting it will be part of your plan. Whether your balance suffers because of your chronic pain or if age makes you less stable, physical therapy can help lessen your risk of a fall. 

7. Your overall fitness will improve

More movement means improved fitness. Physical therapy is all about helping you move better, and movement is key to improving your overall fitness. Just doing the exercises your therapist teaches you helps, but most people find they move more when it doesn’t hurt. 

Is physical therapy right for you? 

The best way to find out if physical therapy is a good option for you is to schedule an appointment at Orthocenter and discuss it with our specialists. We're always happy to answer if you have questions about your specific condition. Book an appointment at one of our three convenient locations today.