Do physical therapy clinics offer annual wellness exams?

You’ve got a list and you’re checking it twice — an annual wellness exam list, that is. Of course, you’ll make sure to include your primary care doctor, and maybe you should go ahead and schedule that dental appointment. But did you know that physical therapy clinics also offer annual wellness exams? It’s definitely an exam you should add to your list to help you on your health journey. 

Why you should visit a physical therapist annually

During your physical therapy annual exam, your specialist will begin with an evaluation. This assessment will evaluate your body and how you move. Here are some reasons why an annual exam can help you on your journey to wellness:

• To avoid potential problems with preventive care — Don’t most people want to avoid pain and physical problems when possible? An annual physical therapy exam can help you spot issues before they become a problem and even prevent major sources of pain. Your specialist can help you stave off painful conditions such as pain in your ankles or other joints.
• To learn how to improve your posture — How many times did your mother tell you to sit up straight when you were a kid? At least a million times, right? Well, she was right. By taking part in an annual checkup, you can work to improve your posture. Your specialist will assess your overall posture during your exam. Based on your current posture, your physical therapist may give you some exercises to do at home to stretch and strengthen your body to reduce your slouching.
• To bid farewell to frequent injuries — We’re all prone to injuries, but we can reduce that risk. At your annual exam, your physical therapist will evaluate your body mechanics and assess your risk for injury. After understanding how you move your body, your specialist will give you recommendations on how to reduce your risk for injuries. 

Making an appointment for an annual exam isn’t a chore, and it can benefit your health. Contact our Whatcom Physical Therapy team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.