Benefits of Physical Therapy for Your Mental Health and Well-Being - Spe Medical and Physical Therapy Clinic

The primary objective of physical therapy is to help a person retain muscle strength and perform daily activities without experiencing pain or discomfort. When our free movement is hindered by chronic pain or an injury, it can impact our mental health as well. The frustration and feelings of helplessness can settle in quickly.

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Physical therapy involves pain management, exercise, rehabilitation, and other therapeutic measures which eliminate pain and enhance mobility and strength. However, these measures also have a positive impact on mental health.

Here are some prominent mental health benefits of physical therapy.

It Gives You Hope

During physical therapy sessions following a surgery or an injury, patients may be assisted in a series of exercises which help them regain muscle strength and normal movement. Regularly performing these exercises leads to higher production of endorphins in the body. This is the hormone that’s responsible for blocking sensations of pain and discomfort.

It Boosts the Immune System

In addition to increasing dopamine, serotonin, and decreasing cortisol levels, physical therapy also improves the response of the immune system, making us less susceptible to illness and pain. Some of the improvements are a causative effect indirectly.

It’s a Holistic, Long-Term Pain Management Solution

Other commonly prescribed treatments, such as pain meds and pain killer injections, provide just a short-term solution to the problem. They affect the nervous system and block the ability to feel pain, but don’t do anything in terms of addressing the underlying problem. Moreover, the use of such drugs is also associated with adverse side effects and the risk of overdose and dependence. People who’re dependent on pain meds often develop mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.

Physical therapy, on the other hand, is a natural and holistic solution. Not only does it alleviate pain and improves movement, it also addresses the underlying problem and speeds up the healing process. It makes us think ahead rather than relying on temporary solutions.

There’s No Health without Mental Health

As providers of healthcare, physical therapists are also responsible to inform their patients adequately about mental health, eliminate any misconceptions surrounding mental illness, and refer them to specialized professionals in psychiatry and mental health when necessary.

Spe Medical and Physical Therapy Clinic is one of Houston’s best Physical therapy clinic houston and rehabilitation clinics.  We use a combination of the latest, state-of-the-art technology and innovative treatment methods to help patients overcome chronic pain and musculoskeletal disorders. Get in touch with us today for more information on our services or to make an appointment.

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