Most Americans do not move enough. The good news is that regular physical activity is one of the easiest ways to reduce your risk of chronic disease and to improve your quality of life. Make physical activity a priority to:
• Improve your memory and brain function (all age groups).
• Protect against many chronic diseases.
• Aid in weight management.
• Lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
• Enhance your quality of sleep.
• Reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
• Combat cancer-related fatigue.
• Reduce joint pain and stiffness.
• Maintain muscle strength and balance.
• Increase life span.
Physical therapists are movement experts who improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement. PTs treat people of all ages and abilities and empower you to take an active part in your care. After an evaluation, PTs create custom treatment plans for your specific needs and goals.
PTs also play an important role in fall prevention by providing the balance and strength training that is so important in enabling one to do the things they want and need to do. Some PTs are also trained in performing home assessments to maximize your ability to stay living independently in your home as you age. By looking at the functional ability of the person and the physical layout and possible barriers in the home, they can make the appropriate recommendations that will make your home both easier and safer to use.
As October, National Physical Therapy Month, comes to a close – celebrate by making a commitment to adding more activity into each day. If you need help determining what kind of exercise is right for you, find a local PT. They can help you determine the best way to stay active and live a healthy life. Move More!
Resources: https://www.apta.org/national-physical-therapy-month