October is National Physical Therapy Month! In honor of raising awareness of the benefits of physical therapy here are 5 not-so-well known facts! 

1. Physical therapy can treat more than post-operative conditions!

As physical therapists, we are known to treat post-operative conditions such as ACL reconstruction, total knee replacements, and rotator cuff repairs. However, we can treat acute conditions such as ankle sprains, hamstring strains, and acute low back pain. We also treat chronic conditions such as your nagging low back pain, headaches, neck pain, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. 

2. In the state of Virginia you can see a physical therapist for 60 days without a doctor’s referral!

Physical therapists can evaluate and treat your injury for 60 days as a direct access patient before a doctor’s referral is required. Some insurances do require a referral, so give us a call to see if direct-access physical therapy is the right choice for you!

3. You can visit a physical therapist for dry needling, but a doctor’s referral is required!

Dry needling involves inserting a monofilament needle in a muscle in order to release shortened bands of muscle and decrease trigger point activity. Dry needling can help resolve pain and muscle tension and will promote healing. Many of our physical therapists are dry needling certified. It is important to note that in the state of Virginia to receive dry needling treatment a doctor’s referral is required. 

4. Advanced Kinetics offers more than just PT!  We also offer injury screening, runner’s screening, overhead athlete screenings, and personal training!

Not only do we want to see our patients recover from injury but we want to prevent the reoccurance of your injury. Our physical therapists can provide injury or runner’s screenings before your next sports season or training cycle. We also provide screenings for your overhead athlete which includes baseball, softball, tennis, volleyball, and swimming! Our personal training is also a great way to continue your physical fitness journey without feeling overwhelmed with planning a workout. Contact us to find out more information on these services!

5. PT should be individualized and help you reach your goals.  Advanced Kinetics focuses on returning you to your active lifestyle and sport of choice!

Physical therapy helps many get stronger and decrease pain but here at Advanced Kinetics we want to give you the tools to continue your journey to return to the highest level of activity. We will be with you during every step of your rehabilitation to focus on exercises and skills that are specific to your daily life and sport to make sure you are ready to return! We don’t give generalized exercises to every patient and we make sure it is specific to your goals!