How Helpful is Physical Therapy and Massage?

A physical therapist helps to prevent discomfort by using specific techniques and exercises. The therapist has attended an educational institution to learn these techniques. In all states in the United States, physical therapists must be licensed. The goal of a physical therapist is to help patients improve movement, fitness, physical function, and the ability to perform daily functions.

What can you expect during a physical therapy visit?

1. The physical therapist will start with a review of medical history—including joint discomfort and the cause of joint discomfort.
2. Total evaluation of flexibility, posture, gait, balance, and other physical factors.
3. Establishment of a plan based on your condition and goals.
4. Ongoing assessment.

Importantly, your physical therapist can also assess your work requirements and make suggestions to help you avoid motions at work that may lead to additional joint discomfort. The physical therapist may recommend special equipment like insoles. Then the therapist will also give you ‘homework’ so you have exercises to perform at work and home. The treatment plan will be fully customized to your specific needs and requirements.

Massage Therapy

While massage therapy directly treats muscles, it can help to alleviate joint discomfort. However, if the discomfort is acute during a flare up, massage therapy may not be effective. Massage can release the tension in tight, cramped, or strained muscles that may be exerting additional pressure on joints. Massage therapy helps restore optimal health to muscles which means they can deliver nutrients to joints—especially important when you’re using a nutritional supplement like Instaflex. Maintaining optimal health is a proven way to help ease joint discomfort—and massage can help you achieve optimal health. If you choose to try massage therapy, let your therapist know about any joint discomfort and medical issues.

Alternative Medicine and Therapies

Many people who are suffering from joint discomfort have tried, or are actively using, ‘alternative’ medicine to help with the discomfort and achieve a higher level of health. Meditation, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, and acupuncture are popular choices.

Yoga Poses to Relieve Joint Discomfort

Yoga has many benefits, especially when it comes to flexibility. So it’s an option you should consider. It’s important to complete the exercises properly, using the correct form. So you may want to take personal yoga instruction or work in a small group. Remember: everyone had a first time trying yoga.

Pilates

An alternative or complement to yoga, Pilates is an exercise system based on building strength without bulking up. Pilates can also help to improve flexibility and agility plus prevent injuries. Pilates is named after Joseph H. Pilates, who was a physical trainer and founder of The New York Pilates Studio.

Pilates is based on controlled movements organized to engage body and mind. Many instructors use specifically designed exercise apparatus. Initially organized for rehabilitation, professional dancers and athletes discovered Pilates and today, millions benefit from Pilates. Correct movement of the spine is a focus and initial lessons begin with gentle exercises—sitting or lying down. The benefits include flexibility, core strength, and correct breathing. People who enjoy Pilates frequently gain a body that’s strong and supple plus a flat belly, balanced legs, and strong back.

Joseph Pilates opened a gym in New York City in the 1920s which he operated until 1967 when he passed away age 87.