5 Surprising Uses for Physical Therapy You Probably Didn't Know About

When most people think of physical therapy, they picture recovering from a sports injury or managing back pain. While Rehab Associates absolutely excels at those treatments, physical therapy is so much more versatile than you might imagine!

Here are five surprising conditions that physical therapy can effectively treat—conditions you may not have even realized Rehab Associates can help with.

1. Vertigo and Dizziness: When the World Won't Stop Spinning

Ever felt like the room is spinning when you roll over in bed? That disorienting sensation could be Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), and physical therapy is often the most effective treatment.

Here's the surprise: Our specialized vestibular therapy can often resolve vertigo in just 1-2 sessions using specific head movements that reposition tiny crystals in your inner ear. No medications, no invasive procedures—just expert techniques that get you back on steady ground.

When to consider PT: If you experience dizziness with head movements, feel unsteady when walking, or have balance issues that aren't explained by other medical conditions.

2. Jaw Pain (TMJ Disorders): More Than Just a Dental Issue

Struggling with jaw clicking, headaches, or pain when you chew? You might immediately think of visiting your dentist, but physical therapy could be the missing piece of your treatment puzzle.

Here's the surprise: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is just like any other joint in your body—and it responds beautifully to physical therapy. We use specialized manual techniques, exercises, and posture corrections to relieve jaw pain and restore normal function.

When to consider PT: If you have jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, difficulty opening your mouth fully, frequent headaches, or neck tension associated with jaw problems.

3. Constipation and Pelvic Floor Issues: Let's Talk About What Others Won't

This might be the most surprising entry on our list, but it's incredibly important. Many people suffer in silence with constipation, pelvic pain, or incontinence, not realizing that physical therapy offers real solutions.

Here's the surprise: Our Women's Health specialists are trained in pelvic floor therapy, which can address constipation, urinary incontinence, painful intercourse, and pregnancy-related issues. These are legitimate medical concerns that respond well to specialized PT techniques—and they're far more common than you think.

When to consider PT: If you experience bladder leakage (even small amounts), pelvic pain, constipation that doesn't improve with dietary changes, pain during intimacy, or pregnancy/postpartum concerns.

4. Cancer-Related Fatigue: Rebuilding Strength During the Fight

Many cancer patients don't realize that physical therapy can be a powerful ally during and after treatment. It's not about pushing through exhaustion—it's about strategic, supportive movement.

Here's the surprise: Our Cancer Rehabilitation program is specifically designed to combat treatment-related fatigue, lymphedema, pain, and weakness. Research shows that appropriate exercise during cancer treatment can actually improve outcomes, reduce side effects, and enhance quality of life.

When to consider PT: During active cancer treatment to maintain strength, after surgery to regain mobility, when experiencing lymphedema (swelling), or while dealing with treatment-related fatigue and pain.

5. Workplace Ergonomics and Repetitive Strain: Before the Pain Becomes Chronic

Think physical therapy is only for people who are already injured? Think again! Prevention is a huge part of what we do.

Here's the surprise: Through our Direct to Employer Services, we help prevent workplace injuries before they happen. We analyze your workspace, teach proper body mechanics, and develop strategies to avoid repetitive strain injuries. For individuals, we can assess your home office setup and provide personalized recommendations.

When to consider PT: If you spend long hours at a desk, feel stiffness or discomfort during work, notice your posture declining, or want to prevent injury before it starts.

The Bottom Line

Physical therapy is a comprehensive healthcare approach that treats the whole person—not just isolated injuries. At Rehab Associates, we serve the Newark and Zanesville communities with personalized care that addresses your unique needs.

No physician referral needed. Next-day appointments available.

Ready to Experience Physical Therapy at Its Finest?

Whether you're dealing with one of these surprising conditions or have a more traditional concern, the team at Rehab Associates is here to help you move better and live better.

Schedule your free consultation today:

Remember: No physician referral needed, and next-day appointments are available!

From all of us at Rehab Associates, here's to your health!

Your partners in movement and recovery,

The Rehab Associates Team

📍 Newark-Heath & Dresden, Ohio

Serving the Newark and Zanesville communities with comprehensive physical therapy services including pain management, specialty programs, cancer rehabilitation, women's health, pediatric therapy, sports performance, and so much more.