WAKEFIELD'S HD PHYSICAL THERAPY CELEBRATES WORLD PHYSICAL THERAPY DAY

HD PHYSICAL THERAPY CELEBRATES WORLD PHYSICAL THERAPY DAY

Physical therapists help people be “fit for life”

Evidence shows that people who stay active are more likely to keep working, engaging in society and enjoying life – and that physical therapists have a vital role in helping them do that at every stage of life. This is the message that thousands of physical therapists are sending out on World Physical Therapy Day, September 8th.

Every year, physical therapists help millions of people prevent diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and chronic respiratory disease through recommending safe and appropriate exercise programs. They help people be “Fit for Life” – the theme of this year’s World Physical Therapy Day. Physical therapists also help people manage the effects of these conditions, along with the effects of aging, a wide range of diseases, accidents and the stresses and strains of life.

The message of World Physical Therapy Day is clear. As the movement, physical activity and exercise experts, physical therapists are a vital resource in helping people remain active, happy and productive – all the way from childhood to later life. “Many people do not recognize the contribution PT’s make to keeping people healthy and independent,” said HDPT Co-Founder Dr. Glenn D’Addario, MSPT. “World Physical Therapy Day is an excellent opportunity for us to educate people on exactly what we do.”

What is physical therapy?

Physical Therapy is a health profession that combines the science of healing with the art of caring to treat movement dysfunctions. A physical therapist performs an evaluation of movement, which includes identifying joint dysfunction, tissue limitations, muscular imbalances and structural pathologies. Physical therapists use a variety of methods to create changes in tissue and movement patterns to ultimately restore function. Treatment consists of skilled manual therapy (hands on work) with therapeutic exercise that simulates daily movements to rehabilitate the body, restoring maximal mobility and optimal mechanical motion, as well as provide preventative care.

How do I choose the right PT for me?

Each physical therapist has their own philosophy and approach to patient care. It is influenced by their education, experience, clinical environment and personality. Discover who is practicing in your area, and learn about community reputations. Ask your friends and family members for their recommendations; word of mouth is the best referral. Then ask for a tour of the facility, you should feel comfortable at the clinic and confident that you will receive the best care possible. You will get a sense of your therapist and their style of practice during your initial evaluation.

Can I go wherever I want for my PT treatment?

Yes you can; Massachusetts is a Direct Access state. Direct Access means that you, the patient, has the right to choose your physical therapy provider. Your physician may make recommendations based on the relationship that she or he has with other physical therapy providers, and you have the right to request any provider you wish. If you would like to use HDPT as your physical therapy provider, you may bring your physician prescription to us, and we will be happy to discuss your choice with your physician if appropriate. We work as part of your medical team and have strong relationships with the top physicians and specialists in the Greater Boston and North Shore areas.

About World Physical Therapy Day

World Physical Therapy Day falls on the 8th of September every year, and is an opportunity for physical therapists from all over the world to raise awareness about their crucial role in keeping people well, mobile and independent.

For more information about physical therapy, please call HDPT at 781.587.0776 or visit www.HDPTonline.com.