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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

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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 Therapy
5.0
Based on 293 reviews
Misty L.
Kevin at ProTherapy is excellent! He is able to listen to feedback and discern next steps for meeting clients where they are at on their healing journey. He really cares about his client's wellness. His guidance as been spot on and appreciated! I will recommend ProTherapy to family and friends.
angela martinez D.
I was referred to PRO Therapy by my chiropractor. I was in desperate need of a good PT after very minimal mediocre treatment at another well known clinic. My first visit I knew my experience would be different with PRO Therapy. There was adequate time to share the history following my knee injury and I felt like I was taken seriously. Dr. Spahr formulated a plan that I was comfortable with and we were off. He made it clear that he wanted to see if we could truly heal the knee without another cortisone injection. I love that I felt included in my treatment plan and am always asked if I have questions about what we’re doing. Dr. Spahr is very good at what he does, he’s super knowledgeable for sure! He has a very good and natural ability to meet you where you’re at and moving at a pace that works for your body. My knee issues are resolving at a remarkable pace without another cortisone injection! When I started with PRO Therapy, I thought at the end of it all I would likely need another injection but that’s not the case at all. I would absolutely recommend you give PRO Therapy a try if you’re considering. I’ve referred my husband and can’t wait to see what kind of results he will have. Thanks Dr. Spahr!
Dan C.
Everyone was nice, positive, really helpful and the stuff they do really helps! I appreciate you all and can't wait to keep coming back!! Thanks again
Travis S
As a chiropractor, I've explored various treatments for my persistent knee pain, but Stimwave therapy at ProTherapy has been the most effective. The team was knowledgeable, professional, and made me feel comfortable throughout the process. Since starting treatment, my knee pain has improved significantly and the constant ache I was having is gone.
Suzanne D.
Would recommend and would return for future needs. Dr. Lily was a great listener and tailored her approach to my needs, reassessing each time to make sure I was progressing and my overall goals were met. I also received weekly emails with my plan and left treatment with an overall plan to sustain my improvements. If you’re having pain, soreness, lack of mobility, etc. this will help.
Francine T.
I had six sessions with Kelvyn at PRO Therapy to ease the pain and lack of mobility in my neck and my right rotator cuff. I was afraid of losing even more mobility. Through exercises, stretching and massage, I gained mobility. Pain and discomfort noticeably lessened. Kelvyn is great! Highly recommended.
Ann H.
Dr. Kelvyn and Dr. Kevin are wonderful pros, and again, Doctors. They treated both my husband and I for back pain. The dry needling technique was new to us both and helped us. The exercises were very helpful, and we continue to use them. My husband really thought the Graston technique and the taping helped him a lot. I appreciated their friendly manner and their experience. They listened carefully to us and treated us accordingly. Very professional office. I recommend them.
Mariah P.
Strongly recommend pro therapy for physical therapy! I saw Dr. Kelvyn for a running injury and he was fantastic! He listened to my concerns and modified the treatment plan as I progressed. Also enjoyed the dry needling during the sessions. The whole staff at pro therapy were amazing and I enjoyed my experience there! Thanks for the amazing help!
Linda S.
I had the pleasure of working with Dr Kalvin,I had tendinitis in my knee and hamstring, after 6wks of P.T my pain level went from a 10 down to a 1. He was absolutely amazing, very informative and patient with me. Thank you so much for taking care of me 💖
Chelsea N.
I have gone to many physical therapists over the years and PRO Therapy has been one of the best. I have been here for two separate injuries. They have been able to pinpoint where my symptoms are coming from quickly, explain the issue throughly, and create an effective plan of action. My pain has decreased since coming here! It is a nice, friendly environment, with good conversation.
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