Reap benefits from physical therapy, even if you are injury-free

Physical therapists can help you develop a routine to prevent injury or improve your mobility

- Talya Minsberg

I cried when I graduated from college - because I had to say goodbye to my physical therapist. He had brought me back from many running injuries and patiently talked me down when I wanted to start training again before I was ready.

Finding a good PT can feel like magic, and I was lucky to learn that early on. Many people do not turn to physical therapy until after they have been injured or had surgery. But it can help with much more.

"We're sort of the Swiss Army knife of orthopaedic health," said Dr. Joe Uhan, a physical therapist in Eugene, Oregon. "We can push on bones like chiropractors can, but we can massage tissue like massage therapists can and we can exercise like a personal trainer can."

Here is how to tell if you need a physical therapist and how to make the most of your sessions.

WHEN CAN PHYSICAL THERAPY BE HELPFUL?

Physical therapists are not just for sports injuries or post-surgical care. They can also help you develop a routine to prevent injury or improve your mobility.

Preventative physical therapy, sometimes called pre-hab, is generally focused on strengthening parts of your body that could contribute to future injury or discomfort.

Knee pain, for example, can stem from issues in the ankles or hips, Dr. Uhan said, which can be prevented with targeted exercises. Some athletes or people following consistent training schedules incorporate preventative physical therapy into their regular fitness routines to stay ahead of injuries before they happen.