Rehabilitation for athletes and sportspeople is a critical element for recovery. Rehabilitation services are essential services after an accident, injury, or surgery. Often a physical therapist is the recommended professional to assist in recuperating athletes and sportspeople.
Many acclaimed physical therapists claim to be professional physical therapists. Who is the most qualified physical therapist? When should an athlete seek help from a therapist?
Deciding on the most appropriate physical therapist can be challenging for first-time patients.This read will help you know when to ask for help when you need rehabilitation.
What you need to know when choosing a PT
- Ensure the physical therapist is a certified professional
Athletes are recommended to get help from a trained and licensed physical therapist. A skilled physical therapist has been to school and is trained in body physiology. The PT also majors in sports injury management and understands an athlete’s body.
After successful training, the authorized physical therapist association in the region issues a trading certificate and operating license. The lead physical therapist often works with a PT assistant trained in the profession.
- Do your research
Your health is your responsibility. Therefore, take your time to research your needs and the PT in your region. Some PTs may specialize in particular disciplines and generalize others. For instance, there are PT specialists in back and pain injuries, sports medicine and interventions, and others in sprain and related injuries.
Call your PT and ask the primary questions to help you know you have the right professional. Further, visit the PT at the clinic and ask as many relevant questions to help you make an informed decision.
- Settle for PT you can connect with
The PT you settle for is likely to be your personal; attendant toward recovery. During the physical therapy sessions, he’ll talk to you and expect you to respond so he can make decisions. Communication is an essential element during PT sessions.
Therefore, you need to be comfortable with the therapist. Ensure there’s goodwill between the two of you. A poor working relationship can delay the recovery and healing process. Insist on open and honest communication before, during, and after therapy sessions.
- Understand your therapy sessions
While you visit the therapist in your first encounter, ask how many sessions you’ll take to recover. Some injuries may require you to move from one PT professional to the next. And because consistency is critical for your recovery, you need to understand the treatment cycle.
If you’re assigned a different PT every session, you will likely delay your recovery. Imagine sending your car to a different mechanic to sort out the same problem. Your car will hardly move or get better. Your therapy session and doctors need to be consistent for improvement and assessment.
- A PT with excellent manual skills
A physical therapist often uses the hands to manipulate, feel and activate your ailing body parts. Physical therapy is a skill that gets better with practice and experience. The longer a PT has treated many patients, the better the work. Settle for a physical therapist with strong but gentle hands.
A physical therapist is a medical professional who can help athletes get back on their feet after an injury. Choose your PT wisely to facilitate quick recovery.
