Is Physical Therapy Painful?

Physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat pain and injuries. However, some people may wonder if physical therapy is painful. The American Physical Therapy Association states that soreness and discomfort are normal after physical therapy. However, the pain should not be severe and should improve with time.

Read on to understand physical therapy, what you can expect, and how to manage pain during Physical Therapy by Phoenix in Wichita.

What Is Physical Therapy and How Does It Work?

Chronic pain therapy from Physical Therapy by Phoenix in Wichita is a type of rehabilitation that uses exercises and other treatments to improve movement and function. It can relieve pain, increase range of motion, and improve strength and coordination. Physical therapy can also help you recover from an injury or surgery, prevent further injury, and manage chronic conditions such as arthritis.

What Can You Expect During Your First Physical Therapy Session?

Your first physical therapy session will usually last between 45 and 60 minutes. During this time, your Wichita therapist from Physical Therapy by Phoenix will complete a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of your pain and develop a treatment plan. It may include a combination of hands-on techniques, exercises, and education.

You should expect to feel some relief after your first session. However, it is not unusual to experience some soreness the day after treatment. It is because your muscles have been working hard and need time to recover.

Physical therapy involves exercises like:

• Range of Motion Exercises
• Stretching
• Strengthening
• Balance Training

If you have any questions or concerns about physical therapy, be sure to discuss them with Wichita’s Physical Therapy by Phoenix, we are here to answer any questions you may develop throughout the therapy. Some of our exercises that will help you recover may cause pain during the movement, but they should go away as soon as you stop. If the pain persists or gets worse, please tell your therapist.

How Can You Manage the Discomfort?

You can do a few things to manage the discomfort of physical therapy.

• Ice the Area for 20 Minutes at a Time, Four Times a Day – Icing is the most common pain relief method and the most effective. It numbs the area and reduces inflammation.
• Apply Heat to the Area for 10 Minutes At a Time, Three Times a Day – Heating pads help to increase blood flow and can relax muscles. Apply heat to the area for ten minutes at a time, three times a day. You can also try taking a warm bath or shower.
• Take Over-The-Counter Pain Medication Such As Ibuprofen Or Acetaminophen – These medicines can help reduce pain and inflammation. If you’re experiencing pain during physical therapy, be sure to tell your therapist. They may be able to adjust the intensity of the exercises or use different techniques.
• Stretch the Muscles Around the Injured Area Regularly – Stretching is essential for helping the muscles around the injured area heal properly. If you don’t stretch, the muscles can become tight and weak. Physical therapists can teach you how to stretch the muscles around your injury properly.

If you are experiencing chronic pain, Physical Therapy by Phoenix in Wichita can help. Our very skilled physical therapists will develop a personalized pain management plan to help you get relief.