Our physical therapists are offering Free Health & Wellness Screenings through October in our Monterey & Salinas clinics!

It is well-established that visiting your physician for an annual physical is important for maintaining long-term health. Similarly, dental exams twice each year help ensure oral health throughout a lifetime.

Many still don’t realize, however, that annual physical therapy check-ups provide the third critical (and often overlooked) component of long-term health and preventative care for people of all ages.

As we observe National Physical Therapy Month each October, Monterey physical therapist Dr. John Schott, PT, DPT notes that physical therapy exams help ensure functional wellness.

What are Physical Therapy Exams?

Physical therapy exams focus on one’s ability to move freely and independently while living a safe and active life.

“The main emphasis of a physical therapist is the musculoskeletal system – the bones, joints, muscles and connective tissues that make it possible for you to not just move, but experience life on your own terms,” Schott, a doctor of physical therapy with Balance Physical Therapy & Human Performance Center in Monterey and Salinas.

“As a physical therapist, my job is to ensure this system is working optimally so limitations like strength, balance, flexibility, pain, and so on don’t stand in the way of a person’s quality of life.”

Based on the results of a physical therapy “check-up,” a physical therapist will establish individualized treatment plans and/or programs meant to help prevent future, movement-limiting issues.

Live a High Quality of Life

The goal of these assessments and related interventions is to ensure a high quality of life for those who wish to stay active and independent. As part of this, physical therapists are often able to identify issues that may lead to long-term health problems, such as pain, injury and disease.

“Being able to stay physically active plays a significant role in disease prevention, managing chronic conditions and, in general, taking greater control of your health,” Schott said. “We as physical therapists help people avoid pain, injury and other issues that could lead them toward becoming more sedentary and at greater risk of these types of issues.”

During a preventative check-up, a physical therapist will evaluate such things as movement and injury history, balance, aerobic capacity, functional strength, flexibility, and quality of movement (i.e., gait, reach, bending, etc.).

In addition, a physical therapist will work with each person to address any personal limitations, weaknesses, pain or other impairments that may be holding them back from reaching lifestyle and movement goals.

When Should I See a Physical Therapist?

“We recommend that, just as with their personal physicians, people should see a physical therapist for a check-up once each year,” Schott said. Physical therapy check-ups should also be considered:

• Whenever you experience pain, discomfort or strain when doing an activity you enjoy.
• Whenever you are considering a new fitness or training program, or starting a new sport.
• Following the completion of post-surgery rehab, when trying to resume normal activities.
• After any surgery or condition that has led to bed rest.

FREE Health & Wellness Screenings in October

To demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the health and functional wellness of the people of Monterey, Salinas and surrounding areas, Balance Physical Therapy & Human Performance Center is currently offering free, 20-minute health and wellness screenings through October.

These screenings provide an opportunity to discuss pain, movement limitations or potential injuries with a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy, who can then educate them about possible directions and treatment options for improving their condition.

“As a business, we’re deeply committed to the health and wellness of our community. And, for National Physical Therapy Month, we’re happy to provide these free screenings,” said Dr. John Farahmand, PT, DPT, OCS, founder of Balance Physical Therapy and Human Performance Center.

“Our goal is to simply optimize everyone’s ability to perform physically, especially during a time when people may be struggling to get active again months into the current health crisis,” he added. “Whether that’s helping people safely get back to the gym or helping them overcome pain or injury, we’re your health and wellness partner.”

To learn more and to schedule a free health and wellness screening, visit balancept.com/free-screening or watch the video below: