Many people have misconceptions about how physical therapy works. Physical therapy is also sometimes confused with chiropractic work. To begin, we will define physical therapy, and then discuss the many ways in which it works to improve functioning and prevent injury and muscular pain. Physical
therapy is therapy for the preservation, enhancement, or restoration of movement and physical function. As the name suggests, it utilizes physical methods, such as massage, exercise, and heat rather than medication or surgery. Physical therapists have degrees of higher education, and are licensed
health care professionals who have earned a Doctorate of Physical Therapy. In contrast, chiropractors earn a Doctorate in Chiropractic, and tend to specialize in and becomes experts of spinal manipulation and adjustment. Physical therapists instead evaluate, diagnosis, and provide treatment to restore
movement, strength, balance, and relieve pain. The key difference is that physical therapy utilizes long- term strategy to not only heal the affected area, but build a strong foundation of strength and stability around the affected area to minimize the probability of another issue arising. There are both general
therapists and specialized therapists who are experts in specific types of therapy including occupational therapy, auto accident therapy, sports therapy, and more. General physical therapists are equipped to handle a wide variety of motion and balance issues. These practitioners also promote health and
wellness through preventative care. Therefore, seeing a general physical therapist is wise if you are looking to improve your overall health, or if you are about to begin a new sport or physical activity here and
want to prepare your body properly. Specialized therapists are especially knowledgeable about specific cases, allowing patients to get the exact treatment they seek. These therapists focus more on solving an
exact issue or following a precise procedure rather than promoting general wellness.