Physical Therapy Should be as Routine as an Oil Change

March 19, 2018 Tim@inhometherapygr.com

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vintage black car parked near gas station The automobile industry recommends regular oil changes to keep your car running at its peak performance. Chances are that you adhere to the guidelines outlined in your car manual as closely as possible, and probably even have a favorite business nearby that performs the services.

Just like a car, the human body thrives on a tune-up from time to time. People may not be born with maintenance and performance manuals, but we ought to follow the advice and guidelines of trusted medical sources. Members of the Private Practice Section of the American Physical Therapy Association would like to see scheduling time with a physical therapist to treat and prevent injuries as routine as going for an oil change.

Educated and trained in the movement and function of the human body, physical therapists help patients reduce pain, restore function, prevent disability, and improve workout performance. Contrary to popular belief, the movement specialists don’t just want to see you when you’re sidelined with an injury. They’re also available to teach you exercises that prevent injuries and help you participate more fully in daily activities.

At In Home Therapy of Grand Rapids, we prefer to see a person for balance and home safety prior to a fall/injury rather than after a person has a fall and injuries their self. It is easier to improve/correct your balance, strength or home safety before an injury occurs. However, like taking your car in for service after an accident, we will also treat you after an injury.

woman exercising indoors

Just like oil changes are only one piece of a car’s maintenance schedule, physical therapy is part of an overall focus on health and wellness. According to recent research, lifestyle changes such as increased physical activity can have a significant impact on health. For example, being physically active can improve the health of patients with chronic diseases and lead to a better quality of life.

A car is an investment, one that needs to be protected by changing its fluids and otherwise making sure it performs well on the road. Going to physical therapy is one way to protect your biggest investment: Your health. Actively protecting your health improves your chances of living a long, active and productive life.

I look forward to hearing from you for your regular tune up.

Tim Batt, PT

What’s the difference between Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy?

February 7, 2018 Tim@inhometherapygr.com

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In Home Therapy of Grand Rapids

What’s the difference between Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy? That is a common question people have when starting therapy. This article will attempt to explain the difference between Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy. First, both a Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist are required to be licensed by the state of Michigan. You can verify a license using the State of Michigan website.

The American Occupational Therapy Association describes Occupational Therapy

“In its simplest terms, occupational therapists help people across the lifespan participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities (occupations). Common occupational therapy interventions include helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations, helping people recovering from injury to regain skills, and providing supports for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes. Occupational therapy services may include comprehensive evaluations of the client’s home and other environments (e.g., workplace, school), recommendations for adaptive equipment and training in its use, and guidance and education for family members and caregivers. Occupational therapy practitioners have a holistic perspective, in which the focus is on adapting the environment to fit the person, and the person is an integral part of the therapy team.”

Some therapy clinics refer to an Occupational Therapist as the therapist that works on the shoulder, elbow and hand. In the home setting common problems Occupational Therapy works on addressing issues to manage daily activities such as dressing, bathing, cooking.

The American Physical Therapy Association describes Physical Therapy

“Licensed health care professionals who help patients improve or restore mobility, and in many cases helping patients reduce pain, and avoid the need for surgery and the long-term use of prescription medications and their side effects. Physical therapists examine, evaluate, and treat patients whose conditions limit their ability to move and function in daily life. Your physical therapist’s overall goal is to maintain, restore, or improve your mobility and help reduce your pain.”

In the home setting common problems Physical Therapy works on addressing are home safety. This includes fall prevention, safety recommendations, equipment recommendations, balance improvement. In addition to these safety issues home physical therapy also treats common musculoskeletal problems like limited shoulder movement/pain, low back pain, neck pain, joint replacement therapy.

If you have any questions feel free to email or call to discuss your situation.

Tim Batt, PT

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