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4 Misconceptions About Physical Therapy

by | Nov 13, 2023 | News

physical therapy rehabilitation graphic

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about physical therapy, but for those who have tried physical therapy unsuccessfully in the past, the mistrust is even greater. You may have tried physical therapy in the past – but you haven’t tried PRO Therapy!

Below are some common misconceptions about physical therapy – and some of them, unfortunately, are true at other clinics. At PRO Therapy, we actively address these pain points to ensure they don’t interfere with your treatment.

Read Now: How Do I Know if Physical Therapy is Working?

Misconception: You’ll Just Be Working With a Personal Trainer

It’s easy to confuse a physical therapist with a personal trainer – both professionals work with the body. However, they work in different ways. A personal trainer is generally focused on strength training and weight loss. Physical therapists are movement experts who improve quality of life through prescribed exercises, hands on care and patient education – and have a doctorate.

It’s not uncommon for some physical therapy clinics to have trainers, aides and assistants conduct patient care. This isn’t to diminish their expertise – but if you’re seeking a physical therapist, it’s a bait-and-switch to work with another team member instead. At PRO Therapy, we don’t use aids, trainers or assistants of any kind. It’s 1:1 with a DPT at all times! This creates a unique experience, allowing you to work directly with an expert with the highest level of training and expertise in their field.

Read Now: Meet Our Team

Misconception: Physical Therapy is “Just Exercise”

It’s true that exercise can be a vital part of a treatment plan, but a successful physical therapy program isn’t solely exercise.

At PRO Therapy, we use both passive and active care. Each appointment is tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and means of achieving positive outcomes. Treatment plans are then created for what is best needed to achieve those outcomes at each session.

Your specific treatment plan will depend on your needs, but these are some of the treatments PRO Therapy offers:

  • Spinal/Extremity Joint Manipulation
  • Active Release Technique
  • Kinesiotaping
  • Neuromuscular Re-Education
  • Wellness Coaching
  • Sport-Specific Programs
  • Mechanical Traction
  • Joint Mobilization
  • Trigger Point Therapy
  • Graston Technique
  • Gait Training
  • Personal Training
  • Cupping Therapy
  • Ultrasound
  • Dry Needling
  • Soft Tissue Mobilization
  • Therapeutic Exercise
  • Postural Evaluation
  • Nutrition Coaching
  • Laser Therapy
  • Muscle Energy Techniques
  • Myofascial Release
  • Therapeutic Activities
  • Custom Orthotics
  • Work Hardening/Conditioning Programs
  • Electrical Stimulation

Read Now: Explore Our Physical Therapy Services

Misconception: Your Physical Therapist is Just Going to Tell You What You CAN’T Do

A lot of patients assume – based on past experience – that if they go to see a physical therapist they’re going to be told they can’t do the things they love. Because of that, people research on youtube, google, social media as a good way to bandage an issue to avoid coming in. And then their issues become worse and turn into injuries.

At PRO Therapy, we focus on your goals, lifestyle, and outcomes – we leave surgery, painkillers, and removing activities as a last resort. We use our sessions to focus on ways to give alternatives and care that will prevent all of that from happening!

Read Now: Why Your Physical Therapy Isn’t Working (And How to Fix It)

Misconception: Physical Therapy is More Expensive Than Other Care Options

An extremely common misconception surrounding physical therapy is the cost. Many people assume that because it’s a multi-session treatment plan, that it’s more expensive than something like surgery. However, the opposite is true – a recent study found that patients with lower back pain who started treatment with PT saved an average of 72 percent in the first year than those who chose surgery for relief.

It’s difficult to determine how much your treatment plan will cost without speaking directly to a provider. Your physical therapy plan will be specific to you – and for that reason, we focus first on your goals and how we can achieve those outcomes.

Contact our care team to get started today!

Access Now: Cost and Availability Inquiry

Dr. Kevin Spahr has extensive expertise in post-surgical rehab, work-related injuries, sports injuries and motor vehicle accidents. He has clinical experience in treating all regions of the body including neck, back, shoulder, elbow, hand/wrist, hip, knee, and ankle/foot orthopedic conditions.
Dr. Kevin Spahr

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Read our reviews from other people like you who came to see the physical therapy team – and left much healthier and happier.
Excellent
PRO Therapy5.0
Based on 355 reviews
Gabriella S.
Dr. Lily is the best. She is so incredibly knowledgeable and truly a joy to work with. My experience at PRO Therapy was the perfect mix of support and challenge in order to get me recovered!
Alexander H.
I entered a broken man. I left with skills and minimal pain. Lily is a wizard. Do yourself a favor and get in there!
L D.
Pro Therapy is amazing. I saw Dr. Lilly and have had a full recovery with no medication!! It was a terrific experience all the way around. I could not not be a bigger supporter.
Kelly N.
Lily is amazing. My upper trap, shoulder and neck have been brought back to life! I’m now set up for my 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s with the CORRECT way to lift weights and build strength. Thank you, Lily and PRO Therapy!
Kelly M.
Kelvyn was very thorough and walked me through all the exercises and gave me instructions with pictures. He always had new exercises to help me progress and improve.
Beatrice M.
I absolutely love PRO Therapy — I have worked with 2 different PTs now for 2 very different reasons and both experiences have resulted in incredible support and healing.
Max
The treatment I've received is incredible! The doctors are great listeners, smart and very adaptive to your needs. I've physically improved 10 fold since coming here and the process was very smooth compared to other places
Amy S.
Dr. Lily has provided patient and caring physical therapy for a few different injuries I've had. She is always helpful, open, and pays attention to the various issues that come with being an older woman. I also appreciate that she is always on time and that the support staff is wonderful.
Dillon A.
Dr. Kelvyn was a delight to work with. He was extremely helpful in identifying specific areas that needed strengthening and I started to feel the impacts of his suggested exercises very quickly!
Sara D.
I have seen Dr. Kelvyn for a couple of injuries and he has done a fantastic job helping to improve and resolve those pain and mobility issues. Jen at the front desk is always kind and welcoming and wonderful. I would highly recommend this business for anyone's physical therapy needs.