June is Men’s Health Month, and many men may be hesitant to see a healthcare provider for a regular health checkup or when they have health symptoms, an illness or get injured.

“Statistically 50 percent of men may be hesitant to see a physical therapist for a sports injury or chronic pain. Or they may think they don’t need to go to the recommended physical therapy visits following surgery on a joint such as a knee, hip, shoulder, back, ankle, wrist or neck,” said Tyson Herrick, an Intermountain Health physical therapist at Intermountain Physical Therapy in Payson.

There’s a common saying among physical therapists and it’s ‘The more you move, the better your health.’

“Physical therapists are movement experts. And we tailor your care to your specific anatomy, medical condition, injury and your physical health goals,” said Herrick.

Physical therapists are licensed health care providers that can help you avoid surgery, minimize the use of prescription pain medication, maximize your mobility, help you recover properly after surgery, teach you how to manage pain and chronic conditions, prevent injury, improve your physical function, fitness, and even help you improve your sports performance.

Herrick says there are common myths and barriers that prevent men from seeking physical therapy. These include:

1. Time constraints

Some men feel they don’t have time for physical therapy. But you can do a physical therapy visit through a virtual telehealth visit through Connect Care. Remember, you don’t have time to deal with chronic pain either.

2. Physician referral

Some men think they need to go to a doctor before they can go to physical therapy, which means another doctor visit, but in Utah you don’t need a physician referral. You can self-refer and call a physical therapy office yourself.

3. Cost

Physical therapy is a cost-effective primary care option for injuries, and can help people avoid more expensive, more invasive treatments like surgery and prescription medication, and it also can teach you how to avoid injury.

When surgery becomes necessary, going to physical therapy visits can help you ensure your money is well spent by guiding you through your recovery the right way, that will get you back to doing the sports or other physical activities you enjoy.

For more information or to find a physical therapist visit the physical therapy and rehabilitation page at intermountainhealth.org.