The COVID-19 pandemic has changed a lot about the way the world operates. One way it has changed physical therapy is increasing the demand for virtual physical therapy services.

Virtual physical therapy has been around for a while, but now that it is less safe for people to travel or be around other people, virtual physical therapy is growing in popularity. This is good news for you if you are struggling with aches and pains and are looking for someone to help.

What can virtual physical therapy offer vs. in-office physical therapy?

In many ways, virtual physical therapy is the same as in-office physical therapy. Your physical therapist can examine your motions and posture. They can guide you through safe, gentle, targeted exercises and stretches. They can recommend posture changes and provide other helpful advice.

The one thing they are unable to do virtually is administer any hands-on physical therapy. Still, the benefits of the treatment you do receive virtually can help reduce and prevent your aches and pains.

Some other ways virtual physical therapy helps include:

• Creating independence — The ultimate success of any physical therapy routine is your commitment to completing prescribed exercises and stretches at home. With virtual physical therapy, you already have the advantage of learning these exercises in your home, so you have the confidence that you can do them on your own when you need to.
  
• Reducing stress — Physical activity helps release chemicals in your body that reduce stress levels. Plus, it helps to know that the activities you are doing are designed to reduce and prevent pain and help improve your range of motion.
  
• Improving respiratory health — Many physical therapy exercises also engage your cardiovascular system, which includes your heart and lungs. Over time, exercises that target your heart and lungs help improve your heart rate and your respiratory health, which play a role in your overall well-being.

Contact Franklin Rehabilitation for virtual physical therapy services

Do you have chronic pain that is keeping you from doing your work or enjoying your favorite hobbies? It’s hard to get out and find the help you need during these difficult times, but with virtual physical therapy, you can start treating aches and pains at home. Contact our team today for more information about virtual physical therapy or to schedule an initial appointment.