Sometimes our “yellow brick road” to health comes with surprises. The “wizardly” ideals we grow up with may not lead to the promised land and eternal fountain of youth. How anti-climactic! Most of us are not conscious of our assumptions about health, aging, and our bodies because they are ingrained in the fabric of our childhood. Nevertheless, our road to health often requires consciously uncovering old beliefs. Perhaps, some of these perceptions below sound familiar to you. You may even find that the “reality” is far more promising (and much less intimidating) than we ever thought!Perception
- I can’t see a physical therapist without seeing a doctor first.
- Only athletes and dancers are built for “body awareness”.
- Surgery speeds up healing.
- It’s normal to have back pains as we age.
- I’m too old to continue playing my favorite sport.
- My injury will get better if I stop exercise.
- Bed rest will heal my lower back.
- PT only helps young people. I’m too old for it.
Reality
- Most states allow access to a PT directly without seeing a Dr. first.
- Body awareness can be learned like any skills.
- Musculoskeletal surgeries will require rounds of PT anyway.
- Back pain isn’t “normal aging”. Lifestyle and posture changes can prevent and heal it at any age.
- The benefits outweigh the risks, especially with modifications.
- Early mobilization prevents joint swelling, stiffness, and loss of motion.
- Studies show that bed rest is generally counterproductive.
- Studies show seniors of advanced age gain significant strengh and balance with PT.