Backspin Oct_2018 | Page 25

ptspin by Lucas Quebedeaux, PT, DPT Lower Back Pain and Core Stability Patients undergoing physical therapy can have a positive or negative outlook depending on their own mindset. Many patients come in having misconceptions of physical therapy because friends or family have either had miraculous recoveries or negative experiences. This can either give the patients false hope or even depressed feelings concerning their need for physical therapy. This is where we step in as a staff to ensure the mentality of the patient is constructive and positive. Physical therapy is coming more and more to the forefront as necessary after injury or certain illnesses. Ponchatoula Therapy and patients develop a trust that instills long term development and strength, even if it follows what could be considered a short term injury. Patients take home the skills learned at the clinic to develop a home exercise program from day one. Mentality and comfort with the staff is a big part of physical therapy. Sports bring the mental challenge of physical therapy, thus allowing athletes to succeed at a higher rate through treatment. We want to train all of our patients to become as athletic as possible, not necessarily competitive, but just to make the everyday routine much easier at minimal. We want our patients to have the positive mindset, even when it comes to chronic pain that may otherwise negatively impact the patient’s life or mood. Initially, it is tough to understand that physical therapy might help, but throughout the process, the staff plays an important role for the patient to instill that confidence every day. On a regular basis, we see our patients get back to doing their daily activities even after experiencing chronic pain for years. Psychology is a top priority in physical therapy. It is even taught at the university in physical therapy programs. We pride ourselves in the relationships that we develop and confidence that we instill. It is so great to get to know people in such a tight knit community as Ponchatoula. It is hard to walk through downtown without seeing a friendly face. We are continually trying to establish to be another positive part of the community. Congratulations to Ponchatoula Therapy for being voted best place for physical therapy by Tangipahoa residents – from your friends at Backspin. 25