Happy 2026! Have you thought about scheduling an annual physical therapy exam?
You probably see a dentist and primary care physician on an annual basis, so why not check in on the rest of your body? What do you do yearly to check in on your range of motion, strength, balance, and coordination? You might not notice small changes to these abilities until you experience difficulties. An annual physical therapy exam can catch problems early and help you manage them before they lead to bigger problems.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Annual physical therapy exams are quick and easy. Your annual visit may include:
- A review of your health history and any injuries
- Assessment of your strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, etc. in a functional screening
- A review of your movement goals (e.g., Do you want to run a marathon? Do you want to get on and off the floor easily to play with your grandkids?)
- A review and update of your home exercise program
Want a visual? Let’s take a closer look at a functional screening:
HOW IMPORTANT IS MOVING WELL?
Evidence suggests that movement is a valuable predictor of future health and resilience against disease. Mobility limitations are associated with negative health outcomes, meaning that moving well can keep you healthier and help you live longer.
Below are some examples of the power of movement when it comes to predicting future health:
Gait Velocity
Think of gait velocity as the speed at which you walk. Several studies have indicated that you’re likely able to complete typical daily activities independently if your typical walking speed is over 1 m/s (or 3.3 ft/s). You’re also less likely to be hospitalized or have adverse events with adequate gait velocity.
Sitting-Rising
According to multiple studies, if you’re able to move from standing to sitting on the floor to back to standing without using your hands, you have a lower risk of mortality—likely due to a lessened fall risk. In this way, ability to perform a sitting-rising movement can inform us about your potential for injury.
We’ve taken a look at how mobility is a crucial predictor of overall health. Now, check in on your movement ability with a physical therapy exam, so that you can be your strongest self!
Schedule online or call 484-526-5025 to make an appointment today!
References
Why Provide an Annual Physical Therapy Visit (APTA)
The impact of mobility limitations on health outcomes among older adults – ScienceDirect