There is no debating that nutrition can directly affect both function and recovery, and that poor nutrition is a key element in many of the conditions physical therapists evaluate and treat.

Chronic disease associated with obesity and behaviours linked to a sedentary a lifestyle calls for nutritional intervention. Nutrition thus plays a key role in improving patient outcomes and long-term progress.

Assessing a patient’s nutrition, diet and eating habits– along with our expertise in assessing one’s ability to move with minimal pain – allows a physical therapist to treat patients more holistically, leading to a number of immediate benefits, including:

• Decreased inflammation.
• Decreased nociceptive input.
• Improved cognitive function.
• Improved insulin and blood sugar regulation.
• A significant improvement in patient outcomes and satisfaction.
• Credibility as a valuable, go-to resource within your community.
• The acceleration of the healing process while reducing the chance of persistent pain.

Having nutrition as a criterion in your initial evaluation will help you fill a crucial care void that many physical therapists either ignore or do not feel comfortable addressing. When combined with therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, cognitive interventions, and patient education, such an approach can transform patient outcomes and rank your practice as a go-to within your community. Referral partners will take notice too!