Telehealth has revolutionized the way healthcare is delivered, offering convenience and immediate access to medical consultations. However, when it comes to physical therapy, telehealth is not nearly as effective as in person appointments. Let’s take a closer look on why telehealth is beneficial for certain medical appointments, but presents unique challenges for physical therapy.
Benefits of Telehealth for Medical Consultations
Telehealth provides a platform for patients to consult with healthcare providers without the need for physical travel. This is particularly helpful for medication adjustments, follow-up visits, and initial consultations where physical examination is not critical. The ability to discuss symptoms, review test results, and modify treatment plans remotely is a significant convenience – reducing the time associated with traveling to in-person visits.
Challenges of Telehealth for Physical Therapy
Physical therapy, by nature, is hands-on and interactive. Here are some of the challenges associated with delivering physical therapy by telehealth alone:
Limited Physical Interaction: Physical therapists often use manual techniques to assess and treat conditions. These techniques, which include manipulating joints and muscles, are difficult to replicate remotely. The physical presence of a therapist also helps in accurately assessing a patient’s posture, movement, and technique – crucial elements that are often lost in translation through a screen.
Equipment and Space Limitations: Effective physical therapy often requires specialized equipment and ample space. In a physical therapy location, therapists have access to equipment like treadmills, weights, and resistance bands, which may not be available in a patient’s home.
Feedback and Correction: A significant part of physical therapy involves real-time feedback and correction. This immediate correction is more challenging to communicate and enforce through a digital platform.
Telehealth is a powerful tool in healthcare, offering significant benefits for medical consultations. However, its use in physical therapy may not help the patients experience the best results. Contact Activity First Physical Therapy today to schedule your first in person appointment. We can help you achieve the best results when recovering from an injury or surgery.