Virtual physical therapy is physical therapy that is online-based. In this form of physical therapy, the therapist works directly with a patient but only through digital means. The relationship between the PT specialist and the recipient is still very personal utilizing the latest in video and chat technology to stay hands on in the virtual sense. The Physical Therapist is able to recommend exercises and track progress all in a way that is visible and accessible to the patient at all times. This alleviates the additional stress of getting to the office or therapy lab and creates access for people who can benefit from PT but have difficulty traveling.
This type of care is revolutionary, convenient and most importantly effective! Among the many benefits the most significant is that it creates access to PT for a wide variety of people from those suffering from hip and knee pain due to osteoarthritis to those recovering from an injury.
1. Furthers the patient's independence
Virtually, patients can manage their symptoms and conditions while being in their homes. Patients are not required to visit a therapist's clinic so that they can attend any diagnosis sessions.
However, all they are expected to do is switch on their phone camera or computer and be guided on various exercises that will boost their strength, endurance, flexibility and alleviate their pain.
Going through this wellness channel while in control gives the patient independence to work on their recovery, even unsupervised.
2. Reduces stress and improves respiratory health
Any exercise that is involved in this is of great importance. It helps maintain muscle mass, bone density and improve their overall body strength, which is a very common stress reliever.
Some of its practices include; meditation, deep breathing exercises, muscle relaxation, and mental imagery relaxation are examples of key stress-relievers they can find.
Keeping up a physical routine is challenging. Having someone on your side can make this a lot easier and seeing the results is a huge motivator. Moving that body also makes their lungs, muscles, and heart stronger; this aids in getting oxygen into your bloodstream, thus improving their respiratory health.
3. Strengthens the immune system
Having a supportive partner of their mental and physical health can give their immune system a big boost. This is what happens with this form of therapy.
The patient gets a caring partner in their therapist, and while it might be online-based, the connection between the two is built day by day.
The patient's navigation to better physical and psychological health comes with many physical activities that increase serotonin and dopamine while also decreasing their body's cortisol levels. This will help strengthen their body's immune system.
4. It helps boost the effectiveness home workouts
Being at home and still navigating through various physical therapy activities virtually will change a patient's whole idea of home workouts. The patient can witness their physical progress without having to step into the gym.
This is realized by the step-by-step individualized plans that the patient regularly receives from a therapist. This ends up renewing the patient's belief in at-home workouts, and they become dedicated to them.
5. Reduces the dependency on medication
It helps patients attain physical and psychological wellness without having to go the prescription way. While medication is helpful sometimes, it can also bear side effects and even become an addiction.
However, in physical therapy a patient can deal with their injuries and pain with specified movements meant to build strength and range of motion. This not only helps a patient to recover quickly but also helps them avoid a reliance on medication.
Virtual physical therapy has the power to help millions of people in their pursuit of physical wellness. Whether someone is in recovery from surgery, illness, injury or dealing with ongoing pain management some form of PT is likely in their wellness program. If you want to look into trying Virtual PT here are 3 digital options who show great results and customer reviews:
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Joint Academy: Specializing in Osteoarthritis of the Hip and Knee
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HingeHealth: Specializing in Back and Joint Pain
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Physera: Specializing in Muscle and Joint Pain
