For those who have been through an accident, injury or surgery, physical therapy is often a recommended course of treatment to address weakness, pain, balance, range of motion and impaired mobility. Physical therapy can help restore mobility, functional ability and quality of life through physical intervention, generally in the form of stretches and exercises.
If your doctor has recommended physical therapy, you might expect to be required to make appointments and go into your therapist’s office at least once a week, if not more, until you are released from treatment. But did you know that in-home physical therapy is also an option? In fact, some physical therapists will meet you in your home, office or even your gym—wherever is most convenient for you—to ensure you are able to continue with your physical therapy treatment.
Not only is in-home physical therapy convenient, but it also requires little in the way of equipment or preparation on your part. Most of the time, in-home physical therapy is focused on tasks you do at home, such as moving up and down stairs, sitting and standing, using the bathroom and shower or getting around the kitchen. People who have specific disabilities may be able to purchase equipment to use in the home to further advance their treatment and progress, though these machines are not always covered by insurance.
In most cases, Medicare and private insurances will pay for a therapist to come to your home, especially if you are homebound or required skilled care, either full or part-time. Even when your insurance stops paying for your in-home physical therapy, you can find your own therapist to come to your home to continue therapy and help you make as much progress in your mobility and independence as possible.
Whether you receive physical therapy in a clinic or in your home, your therapist will likely give you stretches and exercises you should do at home, on your own time. Failing to do these exercises can limit your progress, and may leave you with long-term stiffness or immobility. Physical therapy takes dedication and commitment to ensure proper healing and the best possible results.
