Physical therapy has been shown to be effective for many different problems. If you have started to notice pain that is starting to affect what you do, when you do it, and how long you do it for, then it may be time for you to talk to your doctor about seeing a physical therapist for this pain. This is especially true for student athletes. Pain in children can be a sign of an overuse problem. Overuse problems can be progressive so it is important to identify and eliminate or control the cause. Letting pain ”fester” for long periods of time after an injury or car accident is also not a good idea as this can lead to changes in the way your body’s mechanics work, ultimately affecting your function. In each scenario your physical therapist will function as a problem solver working with you to develop a strategy for your return to your life. In all cases you would first need to see your physician and request a referral to physical therapy. Contact the American Physical Therapy Association at www.apta.org to find a physical therapist near you or if you are in the Chicago suburbs visit us at www.ryndakphysicaltherapy.com.
