With a 2020 population of 56,544, Valdosta is the 17th largest city in Georgia. With most people living within a few miles of the city center, Valdosta is known for its small-town feel.
Suppose you are considering physical therapy as an option for healing. You have made a wise decision. In Valdosta physical therapy is commonly used as an effective way to treat various injuries and conditions. However, before you can begin treatment, you may have some questions about the process.
Here are a few answers to the most commonly asked questions about physical therapy.
What is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a branch of medicine that helps patients regain movement and function after an injury or illness. It can relieve pain, improve range of motion, and prevent further injuries.
What are The Common Reasons to Choose Physical Therapy?
The student population of Valdosta, GA, is skewed towards women, with 3,748 male students and 7,522 female students. Students often engage in sports and other activities that can lead to injuries. However, irrespective of age or gender, there are many reasons to choose physical therapy. Some of the most common include:
1) Muscle and Joint Pain
Muscles are the body’s workhorses and can be subject to overuse, resulting in pain and inflammation. Joints act as the body’s hinges, allowing us to move freely. However, when they become damaged or inflamed, they can cause significant pain.
A physical therapy center will likely prescribe a combination of treatments, depending on the source of your pain. It may include exercises, stretches, and massage therapy to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Electrical stimulation or cold laser therapy may also provide relief in some cases. The electrical stimulation includes using low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate the muscles and help relieve pain. Cold laser therapy uses low-level lasers to help reduce inflammation and pain.
These treatments are non-invasive and can effectively treat various forms of pain.
2) Sports Injuries
A Sports injury can sideline you from your favorite activities, whether you are a weekend warrior or a professional athlete. Common sports injuries include tendonitis, sprains, and strains.
A physical therapist helps you heal from these injuries and get back to your sport. Physical therapy can help you improve your performance and prevent injuries.
3) What are The Benefits of Physical Therapy?
The benefits of physical therapy are many and can help with various issues. Physical therapy can help relieve pain, increase mobility, improve range of motion, and decrease swelling.
It can also help to improve balance and coordination, as well as strengthen muscles. In Valdosta, physical therapy is used by practitioners to treat both acute and chronic issues.
If you are experiencing pain, difficulty moving, or any other issues, physical therapy may be a good option. Discuss with your doctor to see if physical therapy is right for you.
4) How Much Does it Cost?
Pain management clinics offer competitive rates for physical therapy. The rates depend on: the number of visits, the type of insurance, and the location. Typically, a patient can expect to pay between $50 and $75 per visit.
The pain management clinics accept most major insurance plans, including Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Medicare, and Medicaid. They offer convenient payment plans for those who do not have insurance.
5) What Equipment is Used in Physical Therapy?
The equipment used in physical therapy will vary depending on the patient’s individual needs. However, some standard pieces of equipment include:
- a) Therapy Balls: These are small, inflated balls used to help stretch and strengthen muscles.
- b) Resistance Bands: These are elastic bands that provide resistance to the muscles, helping to build strength.
- c) Therapy Putty: This pliable, moldable material can exercise the hands and fingers.
- d) Balance Boards: These help to improve balance and coordination.
- e) Walking Aids: These include canes, walkers, and crutches and help patients who have difficulty walking.
Conclusion
Managing pain is one of the most important aspects of physical therapy. If you are experiencing pain, therapists will work with you to reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life.