How is AI revolutionizing Physical therapy

Introduction: How is AI revolutionizing Physical therapy

 Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing physical therapy in several innovative ways, enhancing both patient care and the efficiency of treatment protocols. Here’s how AI is making an impact:

1. Personalized Treatment Plans: AI algorithms can analyze patient data to create customized exercise programs that adapt to the patient’s progress and needs.

2. Motion Analysis: Advanced AI systems use motion analysis to monitor patients’ movements, ensuring exercises are performed correctly and adjusting treatment as needed.

3. Wearable Devices: Patients can use AI-powered wearable devices that provide real-time feedback on their exercise form and performance, even when they are at home.

4. Virtual Therapists: AI can power virtual therapists that offer guidance and support, helping with triage and answering basic questions during out-of-office hours.

5. Tele-rehabilitation: AI facilitates remote rehabilitation services, making physical therapy more accessible, especially for those who cannot visit clinics frequently.

6. Robotics: AI-enabled robotics assist patients in performing precise movements during their rehabilitation, providing support and resistance as needed.

These advancements are not only improving the quality of care but also making physical therapy more accessible and efficient, leading to better outcomes for patients. AI’s ability to learn and adapt is particularly beneficial in creating a more dynamic and responsive approach to physical therapy.

What are some challenges in implementing AI in Physical therapy?

Implementing AI in physical therapy presents several challenges that need to be addressed to ensure its effective and ethical integration into patient care. Here are some of the key challenges:

1. Data Security and Privacy: Protecting patient data is paramount. With AI systems handling sensitive health information, ensuring robust data security and privacy is a significant challenge.

2. Ethical Concerns: There are ethical considerations regarding AI-assisted healthcare, such as the potential for AI to make decisions that affect patient care without human oversight.

3. Potential Biases: AI algorithms can inadvertently learn biases present in their training data, which could lead to unequal treatment outcomes among different patient groups.

4. Human Interaction: The potential loss of the human touch in therapy is a concern. Patients may miss the personal interaction and support that a human therapist provides.

5. Clinical Effectiveness: While AI can assist with physical therapy, its clinical effectiveness compared to traditional methods needs to be continually assessed.

6. Cost-Effectiveness: The financial implications of implementing AI technology in physical therapy practices must be considered, ensuring that the benefits outweigh the costs.

7. Usability: The design and interface of AI systems must be user-friendly for both therapists and patients to promote widespread adoption.

Addressing these challenges is crucial for the successful implementation of AI in physical therapy, ensuring that it complements rather than replaces the essential human elements of patient care.

Here are more examples of AI applications in physical therapy:

1. Motion Analysis: AI can analyze how patients move and pinpoint problems in their movements through motion analysis, using technologies like radar sensing systems, infrared, pressure sensors, and sound recognition.

2. Virtual Therapy: Sometimes referred to as tele-rehabilitation, virtual therapists can assist with triage, answer basic questions, and provide guidance during out-of-office hours.                                                                                         Also read- Virtual Video Physical therapy

3. Wearable Devices: AI-powered wearable devices can track movements and provide real-time feedback to patients during their exercises.

4. Machine Learning for Diagnosis: Machine learning models can classify X-ray and MRI images with accuracy equal to or greater than human experts, and classify patients into pain phenotypes based on brain MRI.

5. Robotics: AI-enabled robotics guide patients through precise movements, providing assistance as needed and ensuring exercises are performed correctly

6. AI in Assessment and Problem Solving: AI can augment patient care by aiding physical therapists in providing a thorough assessment, forecasting patients’ performance, and establishing a diagnosis.                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

   Will Physical therapy be replaced by AI ? 

                                                                                                                                                            

   AI is significantly enhancing the field of physical therapy, but it is not expected to replace physical therapists. Here’s why:

   • Complex Human Interaction: AI cannot replicate the complex human interaction and emotional support that physical therapists provide. Patients often require guidance through not just physical, but also emotional challenges during recovery.

   • Customized Care: Physical therapists customize recovery plans based on a patient’s progress and setbacks. AI can assist with data analysis, but the nuanced decision-making and personalized care plans are best handled by human professionals.

   • Ethical and Clinical Judgments: There are ethical considerations and clinical judgments that require human oversight. AI can support these processes, but it cannot fully take over these responsibilities.

   • Collaborative Role: AI is seen as a collaborative tool that can improve patient outcomes and reduce the stress on physical therapists by handling routine tasks and data management.                                                                                                           However, the human aspect of physical therapy is something AI cannot replicate. Physical therapists play a crucial role in customizing recovery plans based on a patient’s progress and setbacks, interpreting collected data to determine the best path forward, and most importantly, guiding patients emotionally through their recovery. The emotional support and the ability to adapt to the unique needs of each patient are aspects of care that AI cannot fulfill as effectively as a human therapist.

   In summary, AI is transforming physical therapy by providing tools that can improve care and efficiency, but the role of the physical therapist remains irreplaceable due to the need for human touch, judgment, and personalized care.                                                                                                                                                                                                                  How is AI used in rehabilitation ?                                                              AI can assist physical therapists in several ways, enhancing the treatment and recovery process for patients. Here are some key areas where AI contributes:

   1. Precision and Analysis: AI can analyze data from sensors and wearable technology to provide precise measurements of a patient’s movements and progress. This helps therapists to track improvements and tailor rehabilitation programs more effectively.

   2. Exercise Guidance: Through motion tracking and analysis, AI can ensure that patients are performing exercises correctly, reducing the risk of injury and improving the effectiveness of the exercises.

   3. Predictive Analytics: AI can predict outcomes based on data trends, helping therapists to anticipate potential issues and adjust treatment plans proactively.

   4. Virtual Assistance: AI-powered virtual assistants can provide patients with guidance and support outside of therapy sessions, ensuring they stay on track with their exercises and recovery.

   5. Administrative Tasks: AI can handle scheduling, documentation, and billing tasks, freeing up therapists to focus more on patient care.

   6. Tele-rehabilitation: For remote therapy sessions, AI can facilitate tele-rehabilitation by providing real-time feedback and monitoring patient adherence to prescribed exercises.

   7. Customized Treatment Plans: By analyzing large amounts of data, AI can help in creating highly personalized treatment plans that cater to the specific needs and goals of each patient.

   8. Educational Tools: AI can be used to create interactive and educational content for patients, helping them understand their conditions and the importance of their treatment plans.

   In essence, AI acts as a powerful tool that supports physical therapists by providing detailed insights, automating routine tasks, and offering new ways to engage and monitor patients, ultimately leading to more effective treatments and better patient outcomes.                 

Also read- How is technology revolutionizing physical therapy

What physical therapy is done for vertigo?

Vertigo is a sensation of motion that can occur even when a person is not moving. It often feels like the surroundings are spinning around them. Physical therapy can be beneficial for managing vertigo symptoms. Here’s how it can help:

1. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): VRT is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on the vestibular system (responsible for balance and spatial orientation). It may help people with various types of vertigo, including:

   • Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): The most common cause of peripheral vertigo. BPPV occurs when tiny calcium carbonate crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and interfere with normal fluid movement, leading to false signals to the brain.
   • Head injuries that affect the vestibular system.
   • Central nervous system lesions (such as those caused by multiple sclerosis or migraines).
   • Undefined causes of vertigo.

2. Goals of VRT:

   • Help individuals anticipate vertigo triggers.
   • Teach strategies to prevent or manage vertigo episodes.
   • Improve balance and reduce symptoms.

3. Exercises for Vertigo:

   • Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: These maneuvers aim to reposition the dislodged crystals in the inner ear. Examples include the Epley maneuver, Semont maneuver, and Brandt-Daroff exercises.                                                  
     
     
     
     
     
     
   • Gaze Stabilization Exercises: These exercises help improve gaze stability during head movements.
   • Balance Training: Strengthening exercises for the legs and core can enhance overall balance.
   • Habituation Exercises: Gradual exposure to vertigo triggers helps the brain adapt and reduce symptoms.

4. Consult a Professional physical therapist:

   • Before starting any exercises, consult a physical therapist to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other underlying conditions.
   • A physical therapist trained in vestibular rehabilitation can guide you through appropriate exercises.

What is Vertigo ?

Vertigo, my friend, is like a wild dance of the senses—a tango between your inner ear and the world around you. Picture this: you’re standing still, minding your own business, when suddenly the room pirouettes, the floor waltzes, and the walls do a cha-cha. It’s as if gravity decided to play a mischievous game of twister with your brain.

Now, let’s break it down:

1. The Culprit: Your inner ear, that delicate labyrinth of fluid-filled canals and tiny sensors, is the mastermind behind vertigo. It’s like a tiny DJ spinning tunes of balance and spatial awareness.

2. The Triggers: Vertigo can strike for various reasons:

   • Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): A fancy term for when little crystals in your inner ear go rogue and mess with your equilibrium. Imagine tiny disco balls causing chaos at the dance party.                                                           
   • Meniere’s Disease: This one’s like a surprise thunderstorm—sudden, intense, and accompanied by ringing in the ears.    
   • Vestibular Neuritis: A viral infection that leaves your inner ear feeling seasick.                                                                    
   • Labyrinthitis: Another viral villain, causing inflammation and dizziness.                                                                            
   • Migraines: Yep, those pesky headaches can also throw a vertigo party.                                                                             
   • Motion Sickness: When your inner ear rebels during car rides or boat trips.

3. The Symptoms: Vertigo isn’t subtle. It’s a full-blown carnival ride:

• Spinning Sensation: The world twirls like a tipsy ballerina.
• Nausea: Your stomach joins the dance, doing somersaults.
• Loss of Balance: Suddenly, you’re a tightrope walker without a net.
• Sweating: Your body thinks it’s in a salsa contest.                                                                                                                                                                                                              What is Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy?                                                                                                        Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is like a personal trainer for your inner ear—it helps whip that delicate balance system into shape. Let’s dive into the details:
  

  1. What’s the Buzz?: VRT targets the vestibular system, which is like your body’s GPS for balance and spatial awareness. It lives in your inner ear, doing a tango with gravity.

  2. Who’s It For?:

     • Vertigo Dancers: If you’re spinning like a tipsy top due to vertigo (hello, BPPV!), VRT might be your dance partner.
     • Labyrinth Lovers: People with labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis (those pesky viral infections) can benefit.
     • Head Trauma Survivors: If your noggin took a hit and your balance system got rattled, VRT steps in.
     • Migraine Warriors: Yep, even migraines can mess with your inner ear salsa.

  3. The Moves:

     • Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: Imagine a gentle yoga flow for your ear crystals. These maneuvers coax those misbehaving calcium carbonate crystals back to their rightful place. Epley, Semont, and Brandt-Daroff—fancy names for fancy moves.
     • Gaze Stabilization Exercises: Picture this: You’re tracking a tennis ball with your eyes while shaking your head. It’s like eye yoga with a twist.
     • Balance Training: Strengthen those legs and core. Because life’s a tightrope, my friend.
     • Habituation Exercises: Gradual exposure to vertigo triggers helps your brain adapt. It’s like teaching a scared cat to love heights.

  4. The Guru: Seek a VRT-certified physical therapist. They’ll guide you through the steps, like a patient dance instructor.

  Remember, VRT isn’t a quick fix—it’s a slow waltz toward better balance. So put on your dancing shoes, embrace the dizziness, and let VRT lead you back to steady ground!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    what is the Physiotherapy procedure for vertigo?                                If you experience dizziness, vertigo or other symptoms, talk to your physical therapist about this condition. Also with certain lifestyle habits, such as neck strengthening exercises, next stretches, or tasks that build eye muscles, all of which you can use in Physiotherapy or vestibular rehabilitation, can help to manage cervical vertigo especially alongside other therapies.  
•                                     Relaxation and cervical vertigo
• Jerky or rapid head movements along with anxiety can both trigger and contribute to cervical vertigo attacks, so indulging in relaxation and deep breathing exercises can help to reduce this vertigo attacks.                                                                                                                                                

What is the role of physiotherapy in sports injury?

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of sports injuries. Let me break it down for you:

1. Identifying and Addressing Causes: Sports physiotherapists assess the underlying causes of injuries. They analyze movement patterns, muscle imbalances, and biomechanics to identify contributing factors. By addressing these issues, they help prevent recurrence.

2. Pain Relief: After an injury, managing pain is essential. Physiotherapists use various techniques such as manual therapy, modalities (like heat or cold), and therapeutic exercises to alleviate pain and discomfort.

3. Restoring Mobility and Functionality: Sports injuries often lead to reduced mobility and impaired function. Physiotherapists design personalized exercise programs to restore joint range of motion, muscle strength, and functional abilities.

4. Injury-Specific Rehabilitation: Each injury requires a tailored rehabilitation plan. Physiotherapists guide athletes through exercises that promote healing, strengthen injured tissues, and improve overall function.

5. Preventing Further Injury: Sports physiotherapists educate athletes on injury prevention strategies. They teach proper warm-up techniques, safe movement patterns, and effective stretching routines to minimize the risk of future injuries.

6. Performance Enhancement: Beyond rehabilitation, physiotherapists work on enhancing athletic performance. They optimize movement patterns, muscle activation, and biomechanics to help athletes perform at their best.

Remember, the essential role of a sports physiotherapist is to provide treatment, rehabilitation, and support for performance through injury prevention and recovery interventions. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, physiotherapy can significantly impact your recovery and overall well-being. 

How do Physiotherapist help with injuries ?

Physiotherapists play a crucial role in helping individuals recover from injuries. Here are some ways they assist:

1. Assessment and Diagnosis:

   • Physiotherapists evaluate the injury, considering factors like pain, range of motion, and muscle strength.
   • They identify the root cause and any contributing factors.

2. Pain Management:

   • Physiotherapists use techniques such as manual therapy, heat, or cold to alleviate pain.
   • They educate patients on pain management strategies.

3. Restoring Functionality:

   • Customized exercise programs help restore joint mobility, muscle strength, and functional abilities.
   • They focus on improving daily tasks and movement patterns.

4. Rehabilitation:

   • Physiotherapists design specific rehabilitation plans for each injury.
   • These plans include exercises to promote healing and prevent muscle atrophy.

5. Preventing Recurrence:

   • By addressing underlying issues, physiotherapists reduce the risk of re injury.
   • They teach proper movement techniques and preventive exercises.

6. Education and Self-Management:

   • Patients learn about their condition, injury prevention, and self-care.
   • Physiotherapists empower individuals to manage their recovery.

Remember, physiotherapy is a collaborative process, and patients actively participate in their healing journey. 

What is the role of Physiotherapy in an accident ?

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in helping individuals recover after an accident. Here’s how it contributes to the healing process:

1. Pain Management:

   • Physiotherapists use various techniques to reduce pain and inflammation.
   • By addressing pain early, they promote faster healing.

2. Restoring Mobility and Functionality:

   • Customized exercise programs help regain strength, flexibility, and balance.
   • Physiotherapy aims to improve daily activities and movement patterns.

3. Emotional Support:

   • Coping with an accident can be emotionally challenging.
   • Physiotherapists provide encouragement and support during recovery.

4. Preventing Long-Term Damage:

   • Physiotherapy helps prevent chronic pain and mobility restrictions.
   • Early intervention minimizes the risk of lasting effects.

Remember, seeking physiotherapy promptly after an accident can significantly enhance your recovery and overall well-being. 

Sports Physiotherapist Qualifications ?

A sports physiotherapist is a trained professional who assesses and treats sports-related injuries. These healthcare professionals help individuals recover from injuries sustained during sports activities or exercises, using their relevant knowledge, skills, and experience to facilitate healing and restore athletic abilities. Sports injuries often affect muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons due to the physical demands of sports.

Here’s a guide on how to become a sports physiotherapist:

1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree:

   • Obtain a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy from a program approved by the Health Professions Council (HPC). Alternatively, you can study related courses such as biological science, psychology, sports science, or exercise physiology.
   • Universities typically require applicants to have 2 to 3 A-Levels, including biological science, and a minimum of five GCSEs at grade C or above (including science, math, and English).
   • Consider gaining experience by working as a physiotherapy assistant or in another junior position to enhance your qualifications.

2. Postgraduate Study:

   • After completing your bachelor’s degree, pursue a postgraduate course or a master’s degree in physiotherapy or sports and exercise medicine.
   • Having first- or upper-second-class honors in your degree courses increases your chances of successfully applying for postgraduate programs.

3. Apprenticeship Route:

   • Another pathway to becoming a sports physiotherapist is through a physiotherapist apprenticeship degree.

Remember that the title “physiotherapist” is protected, requiring registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP). While the title “sports physiotherapist” isn’t protected, meeting specific requirements is essential for a career in this sector.

What is the main role of physiotherapy?

Physical therapy commonly known as physiotherapy, plays a major crucial role in restoring the movement and function. When a person or athelete is affected by injury or trauma, disability or illness he/she requires physiotherapy for getting back on field. Here are some important points about the role of physiotherapist: 

1. Treatment of various conditions: 

Physiotherapist address a wide range of conditions including:

➡️ Musculo-skeletal problems such as joint pains, back pain, sprains.

➡️ Neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinson's disease and many more.

➡️ Respiratory problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, pneumonia, etc

➡️ Cardiovascular problem such as Venous insufficiency, heart diseases.

2. Recovery and rehabilitation:

Physiotherapist help people regain function, enhance mobility, and reduce pain after injury, surgery, or illness.

They work with patients to reach there highest level of functional independence, incorporating physical, psychological, emotional, and social well being.

3. Types of treatment: 

Physiotherapy includes a combination of hands on techniques (manual therapy) and exercises supervised by a physical therapist. The treatment includes stretching, strength training, mobilization, manipulation, heat or cold therapy, hydrotherapy, and some electro therapy.

4. Holistic approach:

Physiotherapy takes a holistic approach involving patients directly in their own care. It considers physical, emotional, and social aspects to improve overall well being.

If you like the above article helpful, please let me know in the comment section.

physical therapy costs and insurance coverage

Physical therapy is an essential service that helps individual recover from injuries manage chronic conditions and improve their overall well being let's elaborate the cost and insurance coverage associated with physical therapy:

1. Cost of physical therapy:

If you pay the full price out of pocket the average cost for a one hour session of physical therapy is approximately $ 137. For a package of 10 sessions this would amount to $ 1370.

However with insurance the cost per session significantly decreases. On average with insurance you can expect to pay around $40 per session or $400 for 10 sessions.

2. Factors influencing costs:

Health insurance plan: The actual amount you pay depends on your specific health insurance plan. Some plans cover physical therapy only after you meet your annual deductable, while others may cover it even before you reach the deductable amount.

Treatment received: physical therapy sessions typically include various exercises and treatments, billed in 15 minute agreements. The specific treatments you receive during your appointment impact the final bill.

* Examples of treatments and their approximate costs (for 15 minutes):

➡️ Hands on therapy: $27 

➡️ Therapeutic exercises: $29

➡️ Neuromuscular training: $33

➡️ Walking therapy: $29

* Insurance coverage:

Essential benefit: physical therapy is considered as "essential benefit" under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). As a result, most insurance plans cover it.

Coverage locations: physical therapy can be covered at various locations, including:

➡️ A physical therapist office

➡️ Your home if you are unable to leave your house

➡️ Hospital or if your staying at a care facility

* Plan rules: to ensure insurance pays for your physical therapy, follow your plans rules regarding:

➡️ Approved providers: use doctors or providers within your network.

➡️ Session limits: understand how many sessions your plan allows.

➡️ Prior approval: some plans require approval from the insurance company before starting physical therapy.

➡️ Medicare: this programs also cover physical therapy services.

In summary, while the average cost of physical therapy can be high without insurance, having coverage significantly reduces the financial burden. Always check your specific on details and consult with your insurance provider to understand your out of pocket costs for physical therapy sessions.

Best insurance for physical therapy

When it comes to choosing insurance for physical therapy, it is essential to consider coverage, cost, and the specific needs of your situation. While individual preferences and circumstances vary, here are some reputable insurance providers that offer good coverage for physical therapy: 

1. Aetna: Aetna is known for its comprehensive health insurance plans. They often cover physical therapy services, making them are reliable choice for those seeking therapy sessions.

2. Blue cross Blue shield (BCBS): BCBS is a network of independent health insurance companies. Many of their plans include coverage for physical therapy. It's worth exploring BCBS options available in your area. 

Do remember that the best insurance for you depends on factors such as your location, specific health needs, and budget. 

How much does Physiotherapy cost in Canada? 

The cost of physiotherapy in Canada can vary depending on the type of medical condition, the therapist's area of expertise, and the specific clinic. Here's a general idea of the costs: 

* A 1 hour physical therapy session typically ranges between $95 and $125, including administrative work.

* A 15 minutes service unit may cost about $25.

* An initial assessment session is usually between $75 and $100, but the price may increase if the assessment is long or complex.

It's important to not that these prices can differ based on the location and the individual clinic's pricing structure.

 

Additionally, some health insurance plans may cover part of the cost, and there are also options for those with MSP premium assistance in British Columbia, where is visit has a Physiotherapy cost of $23. It's always a good idea to check with your insurance provider and the physiotherapy clinic for the most accurate and up to date pricing.

How much is a physical therapy session in the Philippines?

The cost of a physical therapy session in the Philippines typically ranges from PhP 501 to PhP 1500. However, the prices can vary based on the specific treatment program, the number of sessions required, and the clinic or Hospital where the therapy is provided. It's also worth noting that some clinics may offer more affordable rates starting from PhP 500 for basic therapy. 

Are there any government funded programs for physical therapy? 

Yes, there are government founded programs for physical therapy in various countries. For example, in Ontario, Canada, there are government funded Physiotherapy clinics that provide assessment and treatment services, including rehabilitation following an injury or Hospital stay. 

Additionally, while there are no federally funded grant programs specially for physical therapy measures in the United States, there are Government education grants that can be applied to the needs of students enrolled in physical therapy programs.

For more specific information about government funded physical therapy programs in your area, it's best to check with local health authorities or government health departments.

How can I find about similar programs in other countries? 

To find out about government funded physical therapy programs in other countries, you can start by: 

➡️ Exploring global scholarship databases that include physical therapy programs, like GlobalScholarships.com

➡️ Visiting official government health websites of the country your interested in. They often have sections dedicated to health care services and funding.

➡️ Checking educational resources that list scholarships and grants for physical therapy students, such as ScholarshipsAds.com

➡️ physical therapy associations or organizations in the country. The usually have up to date information on available programs and grants.

➡️ Researching through international physical therapy foundations like the foundation for physical therapy research, which may offer grants and scholarships worldwide.

Is physical therapy better than gym?

Physical therapy and gym both are different aspect for human being, they play a different roll for our healthy lifestyle and well being. In physical therapy what we do is any muscular skeletal dysfunction pain or deformity we used to overcome it for a healthy lifestyle and physical therapy helps to maintain our daily routine activities. On the other hand gym is basically for developing body strength, stamina, and cardiovascular function. 

Both physical therapy and gym have a common thing for a human being to elevate his physical fitness level to the next level. So when you go to a gym, the trainer will provide you different types of exercise including warm up, stretching, strengthening, an strength training. But when you go to a physical therapy, he will have a different form of assessment and evaluation according to body type and he will make a tailored treatment session according to your condition. 

For example, if I had a lower back pain problem then a physical therapist will perform the movements according to my body type and how much movement I can perform in sitting, standing position will be checked first, then accordingly he will make a treatment plan for me. Then with the help of electrotherapy modalities and exercise therapy a proper treatment rehabilitation is given to me so that I can perform and increase my movement day by day without any discomfort.

 But if you go to a gym having back pain then trainer will suggest you not to lifts heavy weight, just perform simple and basic exercise and go home. So both the aspects are different from each other. 

Related to back pain what type of stretching and strength training should I do has to be precised  by a professional physical therapist not a gym trainer. It doesn't mean that a gym trainer is of no use to me, if you have a weak back  or weak muscles of your leg then a gym trainer will help you in building those muscles and developing the stamina accordingly. 

Overcoming from a back pain by a physical therapist help us to move in the direction of doing gym and lifting weights and also increasing the strength of back muscles and overall cardiovascular fitness.

Going for a membership of gym is much cheaper than going for a physical therapy session but both play a different variety of role for our health level fitness. If you want to lose weight or gain weight then gym membership is helpful in getting into that required amount of body shape, But if you have any sort of injury regarding from your neck muscles to sprain ankle and if you are unable to do daily activities independently then physical therapy will help you in that condition.  

Here are some conditions in which physical therapy should be the first line of treatment, they are listed below:

*Cervical pain

*Knee problems such as ligament tear, arthritis or spastic muscle around the joint

*Frozen shoulder

*Lower back pain specially help for L4-L5 region

*Tennis elbow

*Ankle sprain or strain

*Mid back pain or muscle spasm

*Wrist pain or injury of the wrist

If you have any of the above problem you can go to a physical therapist rather than going to gym.

Physical therapy and gym both have a common thing that is strength training but when to do strength training is more important to choose which is better for me according to my body type. 

The correct form of doing exercise in a gym is that you should start of first with 20 to 30 minutes of warm up exercises including treadmill, cross trainer, static cycling and afterwards some stretching exercises.

 Then only your body is ready to perform the strength training exercise accordingly. Doing gym on a regular basis will develop your muscle mass and conditioning so that your body becomes more stronger day by day and in any sort of injury your body will recover soon as compared to normal individual.

In a physical therapy session when you go to a physical therapist keep one thing in mind that a physical therapist is a professional medical healthcare professional in which he has a thorough  knowledge and understanding about each and every body part.

 Now if you have any musculo-skeletal pain or deformity, for example cervical pain then in that condition a physical therapist will first do the assessment part actively and manually, then he will check the range of motion, the type of muscle whether it is flaccid or spastic, the range of cervical movements.

 Whether the movements are restricted or free then accordingly he will make a tailored physical therapy treatment session so that your neck movements become pain free and he or she will perform some manual hands on technique including stretching and mobilization just to get that pain free movement of your neck.

So I have I hope after reading this article it is clear that which is better physical therapy or gym according to your body type and the condition which you have.

Taking a gym membership is much cheaper than going for a physical therapy session but reading the above article it should be clear that when I should go to a physical therapy session and when to go for  gym. Both are different but both play a significant role for our healthy lifestyle and well being.

I will put physical therapy on the upper hand as compared to gym because if you are having a knee repair surgery then physical therapy will help you to gain the amount of movement which is required for your daily activities. From getting out of the bed to sitting position then from sitting position to standing position and then walking, this whole amount of movement is essential and physical therapy plays a major role from rehabilitation of knee repair surgery. 

From the second day of knee surgery you can start your physical therapy but cannot start for a gym session, the importance and beauty of physical therapy is that it will help you to gain your knee function and 100% recovery, so that now you can push yourself for a gym session and membership.

 It cannot be wise versa, which means that after knee repair surgery you cannot go to a gym and instantly perform strength training. In that case knee rehabilitation physical therapy place a major role for your overall recovery.

If you like the above article informative and helpful, then please let me know in the comment section.