Common Misconceptions About Physical therapy

Physical therapy is often associated with athletic injuries and post-operative care, but it’s a vital component of healthcare that supports a much larger population. Physical therapists work with people of all ages and activity levels, from those looking to return to high-impact sports to individuals simply trying to lift their grandchildren or walk without assistance. However, a limited understanding of the purpose and benefits of physical therapy has led to many misconceptions about this therapeutic approach.

1. Physical therapy is Only for Athletes or Sports Injuries

   A common misconception is that physical therapy is only for athletes or people recovering from sports-related issues. While it’s true that athletes often benefit from physical therapy, this approach also serves a crucial role in managing chronic pain, supporting neurological conditions, enhancing mobility in older adults, and aiding recovery from strokes, surgeries, or serious illnesses [1]. Physical therapists help individuals across all age groups and physical activity levels, from those aiming to resume vigorous activities to those simply striving to walk unaided or lift their grandchildren. This is because physical therapy is a versatile form of care that helps improve mobility, restore function, and enhance quality of life for anyone needing therapeutic support [2], not just those in competitive sports.

2. You Have to Be in Pain to Benefit from Physical therapy

   Another common misconception is that physical therapy is only for people in pain. Although managing pain is a significant aspect of physical therapy, it's far from the only reason people seek care. Many patients come in with concerns such as weakness, dizziness, limited range of motion, fatigue, or balance problems. Physical therapy also plays a crucial role in injury prevention, improving posture, building endurance, and supporting long-term health. This means that individuals don’t have to be in pain to benefit from physical therapy. Improving mobility and preventing future problems is just as important.

3. Physical therapy is Painful

   Many people wrongly assume that physical therapy is all about intense exercises that are painful or uncomfortable. The idea that “no pain, no gain” applies in a physical therapy setting is not only incorrect but potentially harmful. While some therapeutic exercises might be challenging, physical therapists carefully design each treatment plan to support healing without causing unnecessary discomfort. In addition to exercise, treatment may include manual therapy, posture and movement retraining, modalities such as heat, ice, or electrical stimulation, and patient education [3]. The goal is always to reduce pain and help restore function, not to cause more pain.

4. Physical therapy is Just Exercise

   Therapeutic, guided exercises are a key part of physical therapy, but it’s far from the only component. Treatment may include hands-on manual therapy, stretching, education, posture correction, balance training, pain management techniques, and even breathing or relaxation exercises [3, 4]. Physical therapists also teach patients how to move more efficiently and safely during their daily routines by offering strategies and tools that extend beyond the clinic.

5. You Need a Doctor’s Referral to See a Physical therapist

   A lot of people believe that a referral from a doctor or specialist is required before they can begin physical therapy. This might be true for certain insurance plans, such as Medicare, but many physical therapy clinics allow direct access, which means an appointment can be made without a referral. In most cases, private insurance plans also cover physical therapy without needing prior authorization. It’s a good idea to check with a provider beforehand, but this misconception should not stop an individual experiencing discomfort from seeking help. Many people delay treatment unnecessarily because of this misunderstanding.

Overall, by dispelling these misconceptions, more people can take advantage of the full scope and benefits of physiotherapy, improving their health, mobility, and quality of life.

References

1. Jesus TS, Gianola S, Castellini G., et al. Evolving trends in physiotherapy research publications between 1995 and 2015. Physiother Can. 2020;72(2):122-131.
2. Jesus TS. Systematic reviews and clinical trials in rehabilitation: comprehensive analyses of publication trends. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2016;97(11):1853-1862.
3. Sahin N, Karahan AY, Albayrak I. Effectiveness of physical therapy and exercise on pain and functional status in patients with chronic low back pain: a randomized-controlled trial. Turk J Phys Med Rehabil. 2017;64(1):52-58.
4. Negrini S. Steady growth seen for research in physical and rehabilitation medicine: where our specialty is now and where we are going. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med. 2012;48(4):543-548.