Physical Therapy's Impact on Mental Health

Mental health issues can severely impair physical health.

Recovery is one of physical therapy's main goals. However, physical therapy is more than just mending the body. It can also positively impact the patient's overall mental health and well-being.

Let's explore how physical therapy can boost mental health.

The mind-body link

Mental health issues can severely impair physical health. The reverse is also true, especially for physical conditions that involve frequent or intense pain. Physical therapy bridges the gap between the mind and the body by helping people regain their physical strength after injury or illness and contributing to emotional resilience.

Less pain, sharper mind

Chronic or acute pain is a mental burden. Therefore, when physical therapy techniques alleviate pain, they also gradually reduce the stress and anxiety associated with that pain. Consequently, physical therapy patients feel much better overall, with a sharper mind and more positive emotions.

Independence and confidence

Patients may feel like their independence has been compromised after an injury, which can lower their self-esteem. Physical therapy helps them recover mobility or learn to manage a chronic condition. Learning to be more independent after an injury can boost self-esteem.

Exercise and mental health

Outside physical therapy, exercise and good mental health always go hand-in-hand. Physical activity minimizes the symptoms of depression and anxiety with endorphin release, which serves as a mood lifter.

Less stress

After a physical therapy session, the mind is calmer. The treatment can significantly reduce stress if structured, routine, and personalized. Some physical therapy methods, like deep tissue massage, are particularly effective as they reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone.

Sleep deeper and better

Chronic pain and injury recovery can negatively impact sleep patterns and quality. However, better physical health through therapy leads to better sleep and a healthier mind. Physical therapy may not fix the mental causes of poor sleep, but it corrects physical issues that interfere with sleep quality.

Cognitive benefits

Physical therapy can also help develop a sharper mind. That's especially true for exercises that demand coordination and balance. Mental stimulation through exercises that engage the mind improves cognitive health, especially in older adults.

Get in touch with a therapist

Physical therapy goes beyond physical recovery. It significantly enhances mental health. Furthermore, it reduces pain and stress and promotes all-important physical activity, even when it may otherwise feel overwhelming. Talk to a certified physical therapist and get a personal therapy plan to address your issues and make your body and mind feel better.

We provide occupational or physical therapy, vestibular rehab, wheelchair training, learning to walk, unweighted aquatic therapy, and other services in the Phoenix area. Call Touchstone Rehabilitation at 602-277-1073