One of the best ways to maintain good health and an active lifestyle is by applying natural remedies in tackling health problems. Physiotherapy is one of such techniques. It is the treatment of disease, injury, or deformity that utilizes physical methods like massage, heat treatment, and workout regimens instead of drugs or surgery.
Physiotherapy is a type of treatment that focuses on preventing injuries and boosting mobility while stimulating recovery and restoration. Although most physiotherapy treatments are specifically for athletes recovering from injury, it is an essential and highly effective mode of treatment for older adults as well.
Why is physiotherapy for seniors so important?
Well, most seniors suffer from a range of illnesses like arthritis, back pain, joint pain, muscle stiffness, ligament damage, inflammation, and disability that restricts their movement. Each one of these age-related issues and a whole lot more can be prevented, treated and managed through physiotherapy.
The importance of physiotherapy for seniors, therefore, cannot be overemphasized. Its effectiveness has consistently been tested and trusted. It has also been proven to offer quite a number of benefits. Some of the benefits that physiotherapy provides to seniors include:
- Treatment of Pain
Physiotherapy is beneficial in the treatment of pain. Neck, back, and joint pain are often triggered by tight or weak muscles, limited blood flow, and idleness. Physiotherapy helps to improve blood flow, flexibility, core strength, and mobility in older adults.
- Build power and stability
Slips and falls are hazardous at any age but common and particularly dangerous for older adults. Physiotherapy promotes stability and helps seniors build the strength that they need to live life freely, without being afraid of slipping or falling.
- Social benefits
Physiotherapy also offers social benefits to seniors. A typical physiotherapy session features a dedicated physiotherapist who works one on one with the patient and guides them towards recovery by helping them achieve their wellbeing and health goals.
- The non-invasive and non-pharmaceutical treatment option
Physiotherapy aids in the treatment of a range of health issues without resorting to taking medications and even over-the-counter options. Seniors can build strength and flexibility quickly, and also prevent injuries without the invasive treatment they may require.
- Pre and post-surgery
Sometimes surgery is inevitable. Physiotherapy aids in quick recovery after surgery and can help seniors build strength before surgery. Regular workout is essential for protection and improvement of cardiovascular capacity and circulation in older adults. Engaging in post-surgery physiotherapy will help seniors recover their strength and mobility much more easily.
- Mental health benefits
Physiotherapy sessions often include workout regimens that provide essential mental health benefits. Many seniors are actively battling with physical pain, adjusting to retirement, or changes in their lifestyle. Engaging in exercise can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression by releasing endorphins.
- Independence
Independence is a critical component of every senior’s life. The ability to move around and do things on your own contributes immensely to your quality of life, dignity, and happiness. Effective physiotherapy can mean the difference between living on your own, requiring in-house care, or being restricted to a retirement home. It will also keep you out of a wheelchair and behind the wheel even longer.