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How Physical Therapists Can

Prevent Future Health Problems

Many of us might only seek out physical therapists if we are recovering from accidental injuries or surgery. However, medical experts say these specialists can also help prevent many health problems if they are seen on a regular basis.

One leader in the industry, Sharon Dunn, even calls physical therapists "the best-keptsecret in health care." Dunn is the past president of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

She recently told The Associated Press she thinks people need to look at physical therapists in a new way – as health practitioners who can help identify possible medical issues before they appear.

Other health experts share this opinion. They include Roger Herr, the current president of the APTA, and Gammon Earhart of Washington University in St. Louis. They both shared Dunn's prevention message in separate discussions with the AP.

Follow the example of dental care

Earhart urges people to think about physical therapists just as they do dentists.

'Even if you're not having any problem, you go in and have everything checked

out.' She noted that such examinations could help find and deal with problems early.

For example, an exam could include a patient's health history and current health –

things like physical activity, sleep, nutrition, and so on. This could be followed by

a look at how a person is moving. Exams might uncover things like postural issues or

unusual body movements.

Herr is a big supporter of yearly wellness visits. He told the AP he believes physical

therapists can be helpful for all kinds of people – the young, athletes, or anyone who