When Delaware issued a shelter-in-place order in mid-March, much like other businesses, the physical therapy world came to a screeching halt. As patients started to return in the spring and summer, the main question we heard was, “Are you open?” The answer is, “YES, we’re open!” Here are a few more common questions we’ve heard since re-opening related to physical therapy:
Is PT necessary, or can I put it “on hold” during the pandemic?
While many things have changed in 2020 as we live life during the Covid-19 pandemic, some things have remained unchanged. Unfortunately, many people are still living daily with aches and pains as a result of musculoskeletal issues. Throughout this pandemic, we have been able to continue to provide one-on-one, individualized treatment to our patients. With many elective procedures being canceled or rescheduled throughout this year due to the pandemic, now is the time try physical therapy, even if it has not been effective for you in the past.
Is in-person PT safe?
Similar to before the pandemic, SOS Physical Therapy has always provided one-on-one care. This individualized attention and continuity of care has allowed us to effectively treat our patient both before and during the pandemic. This also allows us to minimize the number of people in the clinic at a time.
Additionally, utilizing the McKenzie Method and its response based assessment, we have been able to minimize close contact and maintain social distance recommendations as much as possible. Understanding that therapists do have to touch patients, all our therapists and patients have their temperatures checked prior to entering the office and wear masks. All surfaces and equipment are cleaned between patients to ensure they are safe for use.
What kind of PT can be done virtually?
We have been able to effectively incorporate telehealth as an option for patients that cannot or don’t feel comfortable coming into the office. Our specific training as McKenzie providers has allowed us to provide the same effective care via telehealth. The McKenzie Method assessment and treatment approach has translated well to this virtual platform. It allows us to visually see and assess your movement, while at the same time receive feedback from the patient regarding their pain both during and after movement. This allows us to instruct the patient on what exercises are needed, in addition to educating the patient on self-care strategies.