Can physical therapy be done virtually?
/The answer is YES!! Albeit, this same question went through my mind before I began learning about teletherapy and how physical therapists were able to construct effective virtual sessions. Physical therapy has a place in telemedicine and will become a much more common delivery method as we move into the future. I have found it especially popular when working with our youth, whom are ever so in tune with technology. I have created the “Top 10 Reasons Tele-Physical Therapy is Awesome” to highlight the benefits I have personally experienced.
It’s convenient - it can be done anytime, anywhere
It’s fun - there is an ever growing resource of online tools to richly engage students
It provides immediate visual feedback - kids love watching themselves master movements and new activities
It enhances communication with the team - virtual PTs teach the student/caregiver/para how to implement therapy throughout the day, everyday. Carryover grows immensely.
It’s motivating - students want to achieve goals set collaboratively
It’s functional - therapy completed in every day settings, using everyday materials
It’s mobile - the virtual setting can come to the gym, playground, and/or classroom using a portable device, like an iPad, or tablet
It’s practical - virtual therapy eliminates a multitude of overhead costs
It’s effective - connect with specialists who know school-based physical therapy
It’s the future - Join us!!
Contributed by Rebecca Newton, PT, DPT