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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 Therapy
Based on 329 reviews
Trevor F.
Dr. Lily is phenomenal at what she does and will get you fixed up right away. After working with her within months I was back at my strength levels and hit new PRs. I'd go back in a heartbeat.
Liz R.
I have struggled with back and hip pain for several years. ProTherapy is the first place that I found made consistent progress to healing. The combination of physical therapy and Stem Wave has made such a difference in my mobility and pain relief. The staff are so knowledgeable, kind, and put 100% of themselves into their work with patients. If you have been struggling to find relief from your pain, I would highly recommend trying ProTherapy
Hy F.
Lily, is extremely good at what she does. She's been vital in managing injuries during marathon prep and recovery from injuries. Highly recommend choosing PRO Therapy for your PT needs, especially if you're a runner.
Ron D.
I had a very good experience working with Dr. Kelvyn Van Laarhoven at Pro Therapy. I came to Pro Therapy with lingering soreness in my left hip area from hip replacement surgery 2.5 years ago. And I had a flare up of low back pain. Dr. Kelvyn worked with me and showed me how to do several exercises that helped resolve the hip and back issues. I do feel better. I had approximately 14 - 16 appointments over a 3 - 4 month period. I am very satisfied with the outcome of my PT, working with Dr. Kelvyn and Pro Therapy.
Leland T.
Kiersten S.
Very welcoming staff! Dr. Lily was very detailed oriented and encouraging!
Sofia Mulu W.
The PRO Therapy has great people that are very knowledgeable, respectful and friendly whose utmost interest is their patient's wellbeing. That was my experience with PRO Therapy. I was able to openly talk about my fears and asked lots of questions which they listened patiently and attentively and responded in an utmost professionalism. I have come a long way from the time of my first therapy, I am doing very well now, and I am so grateful to PRO Therapy for their best treatment administered to me and the excellent and professional way I was treated.
J
Great experience with Pro Therapy they have been more than helpful and knowledgeable with my physical therapy needs and the staff is exceptional! Highly recommend!
Mark N.
I've had PT in many locations from many different providers. ProTherapy is the most upbeat group of EXPERT DPTs that will motivate, guide, and support you as you regain strength, flexibility or wherever you may be on your journey to greater health. And they are FUN!!
ProTherapy has been a great partner for me through back and knee rehab along with pre- and post- hip replacement care. ProTherapy rocks!

Dr. Lily is my PT hero! It's hard to say goodbye after so many issues addressed. But time to head out on my own knowing that ProTherapy will be there for me should I need them again.

Thanks again to my ProTherapy PT family!
Darlyne J.
Thank you, Pro Therapy, for excellent service and guidance for my left hip injuries. What a difference I am experiencing after dry needling, the targeted exercises, and lately the fantastic Stem Wave therapy. Special shout-out to Dr. Lilly.