6 Physical Therapy Myths Busted

Physical Therapy Will Hurt: Myth. Our primary goal is to minimize your pain and discomfort. Your physical therapist will work within your pain threshold to help you achieve your goals.

People Only Go to PT if They Are in Pain: Myth. Some of the patients who we see are experiencing pain, however there are other patients who seek out PT for other conditions including dizziness, poor balance, incontinence, decreased strength and endurance, or neurological conditions.

Pelvic Health Therapy is Only for Women Who Have Had Babies: Myth. Pelvic Health Physical Therapy can help men and women of any age and any stage of life. Pelvic Health PT addresses bowel, bladder, sexual, and musculoskeletal problems. Pelvic health PT can help with things like painful urination, constipation, and chronic back pain.

You Need a Referral to Go to Physical Therapy: Myth. If you live in a direct access state (this includes NY state), you can see a Physical Therapist without a doctor’s referral.

When You’re Discharged from PT, You’re Done: Myth. Your therapist will give you the tools (home exercises, self-management techniques, and education to improve daily movements) to help you maintain gains.

Virtual Physical Therapy is Not as Effective as In-person PT: Myth. A high quality study published in 2017 shows that telehealth sessions are effective at improving function, decreasing pain, and results are comparable to traditional in-person visits.1

1. Cottrell MA, Galea OA, O’Leary SP, Hill AJ, Russell TG. Real-time telerehabilitation for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions is effective and comparable to standard practice: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Rehabil. 2017;31(5):625-638. doi:10.1177/0269215516645148

Contact us below to schedule a one-on-one appointment with one of our therapists. The therapist will provide an individualized assessment to develop a customized treatment plan to help you attain your goals. We offer in-person visits at our clinic in Riverdale, concierge in-home sessions, and virtual visits over telehealth to cater to all of your needs.

We look forward to helping you achieve your wellness goals.
TeaMPT: Rachel, Julie, Christine, Yoshi, Liz, Heidi, Kasandra, Michael, and Toni