When most people think of physical therapy, they picture someone rehabbing after a knee surgery or recovering from a sprained ankle. But physical therapy is so much more than injury recovery—it’s a proactive and empowering approach to health that helps people move, feel, and live better in countless ways.
In honor of National Physical Therapy Month, we’re spotlighting some of the lesser-known reasons people seek PT—and how it can improve quality of life in surprising and meaningful ways.
TMJ & Jaw Pain
If you wake up with a sore jaw, grind your teeth, or experience clicking or locking when you open your mouth, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction could be the cause. Physical therapists trained in TMJ treatment can use manual therapy, posture correction, and targeted exercises to relieve pain, improve alignment, and restore function.
Headaches & Migraines
Recurring tension headaches or migraines could be related to poor posture, neck tightness, or stress-related muscle tension. Physical therapy addresses the musculoskeletal sources of headache pain—often reducing the frequency and intensity of symptoms without relying solely on medication.
Pregnancy & Postpartum Recovery
Pregnancy and childbirth place significant stress on the body. Physical therapists trained in women’s health or pelvic health help with:
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Pelvic pain
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Diastasis recti (ab separation)
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Bladder leakage
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Core and pelvic floor strength
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Safe return to exercise
Even years after childbirth, PT can help you reconnect with your body and feel stronger.
Dizziness & Vertigo
Dizziness, spinning sensations, or balance problems may stem from inner ear dysfunction (vestibular issues). Physical therapists trained in vestibular rehabilitation can perform specialized maneuvers—like the Epley maneuver—to reposition inner ear crystals and dramatically improve symptoms of vertigo and BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo).
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Many people are surprised to learn that physical therapy can address issues like urinary incontinence, constipation, pelvic pain, or pain with intimacy. A pelvic floor physical therapist evaluates how your deep core and pelvic muscles work together and creates a treatment plan to improve strength, coordination, and function—regardless of gender.
Chronic Conditions & Lifestyle Challenges
Whether it’s fibromyalgia, arthritis, postural imbalances, or stress-related muscle tension, physical therapy offers gentle, effective solutions to improve mobility and reduce pain—without surgery or long-term medication use.
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to be injured to benefit from physical therapy.
If you’re living with discomfort, dysfunction, or limitations—physical therapy may be the missing piece to help you move more freely, feel better, and take control of your health. It’s never too early (or too late) to talk to a PT.
Ready to feel better?
Ask your physical therapist how they can help you with concerns beyond injury. The right PT plan can be life-changing—sometimes in ways you didn’t even expect.