Written By: Katelyn Goodhart, PT, DPT, Clinical Coordinator
When contemplating physical therapy, many tend to focus solely on aspects of “physical health,” a natural association given the name. In my clinical experience, I frequently encounter patients who perceive physical therapy as the primary means of improving their well-being. While physical therapy undoubtedly offers valuable benefits and interventions, its effectiveness can be enhanced by considering other dimensions of health. In the realm of injury rehabilitation and pain management, a more comprehensive approach is essential for a better outcome.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as not merely the absence of disease or infirmity but rather as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being,” underscoring the interconnectedness of these aspects. Physical health encompasses the proper functioning of both external body structures and internal physiological systems, from organs to cells, contributing to an individual’s overall quality of life. Key determinants of physical health include nutrition, stress management, sleep quality, sexual health, and substance use, and all are components that influence an individual’s recovery and progress during rehabilitation. Addressing these factors may pose challenges, as altering lifestyle habits requires effort and often professional guidance. Recognizing this, it becomes apparent that collaborating with other healthcare professionals and wellness experts can greatly enhance and improve the rehabilitation journey.
Research underscores the multifaceted nature of recovery, emphasizing the importance of adequate rest, nutrition, hydration, and stress reduction to promote healing and return the body to a state of equilibrium, and nutritional interventions in particular play a crucial role in facilitating injury recovery and rehabilitation. Studies such as those conducted by Smith-Ryan et al. in 2020, highlight the impact of various nutrients and supplements on inflammation reduction, immune function, tissue repair, and wound healing. However, navigating the complexities of nutrition can be overwhelming! Those clinicians who maintain collaborative partnerships with a diverse network of healthcare providers and wellness advocates, including nutritionists, further facilitate a comprehensive approach to our patients’ well-being and improve their outcomes. For instance, through our collaboration with LifeMed Institute, patients can be referred to undergo comprehensive assessments and receive tailored nutritional recommendations, including supplementation, intravenous therapies, and nutrient injections, to support their recovery goals in tandem with their other physical goals.
Ultimately, achieving optimal physical health necessitates a holistic approach that encompasses not only the external manifestations of well-being but also the underlying physiological processes. By engaging with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians, orthopedists, physical therapists, mental health therapists, and dieticians, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing their recovery journey.
At FX Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing exemplary care by empowering our patients with education, insights, and appropriate referrals to facilitate their journey toward optimal physical health. Book an appointment and move into overall better health and performance!
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