What is Telehealth?
Telehealth is when your healthcare provider sees you for treatment in the setting of your choice either through your computer, laptop, tablet, or smart phone.
What are the benefits of virtual physical therapy?
- Highlights the progress and effectiveness of at-home workouts: One of the hardest things for patients is following through with their home exercise programs when they attend physical therapy in clinics. Through this method of education and delivery of therapy, you’ll be taught how to perform the exercises in your own environment and create that association in order to continue with your exercises.
- Reduces stress and improves overall health: You’re suffering and in pain. Having to get into a car, drive some distance, and wait in an office can sometimes increase the pain from your injury. You can rest and relax after a physical therapy treatment without having the added stress of having to put yourself through discomfort just to return home.
- Fits within your schedule: Your life is busy and hectic. This unforeseen injury has already affected your work, your home, and your social life. Physical therapy treatment sessions are often multiple times a week for many weeks. That amount of time commitment makes it difficult for patients to continue with the program and achieve their highest level of mobility. With telemedicine, you meet with your physical therapist through a computer, tablet, or smartphone wherever you are.
Do I need to download anything?
No, there is nothing for you to download. The video call we are using is HIPAA compliant and all you need is to click on a link to join the call. The call will open up in a browser on your phone, tablet, or computer.
What is required of me to do telehealth physical therapy?
All you need is an email address and access to a computer or other device that has a video camera and microphone. You will need to have a strong internet connection.
I don’t have any equipment at home; can I still do telehealth physical therapy effectively?
Yes! A big part of physical therapy is providing a patient with the tools needed to continue to improve when they are no longer receiving physical therapy treatments. Your independence with home exercises is the key to improvement. Any resistance bands or other equipment you may need will be mailed to you and your therapist will guide you through a progression of therapeutic exercises via the video meeting. Your success depends on you.