Harlem Professionals on the Vital Role of Physical Therapy for Seniors in Harlem
Many people view physical therapy as a treatment that improves postoperative outcomes or streamlines injury recovery. But physical therapy offers a range of benefits beyond recovering from injuries — most notably for seniors.
Park North Physical Therapy, serving patients in the greater Harlem, NY, area, explains the role of physical therapy for seniors.
Prevents Falls and Injuries
Falls are some of the leading causes of injury for senior citizens. Preventative physical therapy can help seniors strengthen their muscles, improve their balance, and promote better mobility and flexibility. All of these are important factors in preventing falls.
Physical therapy can also help strengthen the bones. If a senior does fall, their bones will be strong enough to resist fractures or breaks, preventing serious injury from the fall.
Controls Symptoms of Chronic Health Conditions
Harlem physical therapy can also help seniors manage the symptoms of certain chronic health conditions. Many illnesses impact a person's mobility, muscle strength, balance, and stability long-term. The longer a senior suffers from a chronic illness, the greater toll it will take on their bodies.
With the help of a licensed physical therapist, seniors can learn how to manage the symptoms of chronic health conditions like:
- Parkinson's disease
- Fibromyalgia
- Multiple sclerosis
Treatments may involve improving strength and stability, reducing inflammation throughout the body, controlling tremors, or improving range of motion. All of these can help seniors improve functional capacity and reduce the pain and discomfort associated with their conditions.
Helps Manage Pain
Experiencing aches and pains is a daily occurrence for many older adults. Seniors often suffer from chronic pain due to any of the following:
- Neuropathy
- Arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Muscular conditions
- Chronic headaches
Physical therapy can help pinpoint the source of the pain and take steps to alleviate it. For example, a physical therapist can help relieve nerve pain by stretching different parts of the body to remove pressure from the affected area.
Fosters Independence
Pain, discomfort, and chronic ailments can prevent seniors from living their lives to the fullest. With physical therapy, seniors can strengthen their bodies, alleviate pain, and maintain better control over their movements, altogether promoting their independence.
Park North Physical Therapy explains that seniors who complete regular physical therapy may be able to be independent longer because they have the strength and mobility necessary to take care of themselves.
Contact Park North Physical Therapy Today in Harlem
The role of physical therapy for seniors isn't just enhanced recovery after surgery; it's also important to recognize the difference between physical therapy and occupational therapy. Seniors can benefit from improved balance, lower levels of pain, and enhanced flexibility, all of which reduce their risk factors for injuries and promote independence.
For more on physical therapy services for seniors, contact Park North Physical Therapy in Harlem today at 212-222-6525.
