How can Therapy help You?

Are you curious about how therapy can help you? Recently the Carle McLean County Orthopedics Director of Therapy, Krista Sheppard, and the Carle Health Manager of Therapy services, Michael Vogel, spoke with WJBC's Blake Haas and offered helpful information for the community.

Carle McLean County Orthopedics offers many different types of therapy services, including Physical and Occupational therapy. Whether you are considering therapy for yourself, or a loved one, Krista and Michael guide us through the process of receiving care.

"Physical therapy can take care of a lot of general skills. Walking, balance, coordination skills, basically anything that you might need to return to any activity, exercise, work, or sports" -Krista Sheppard

The therapists at Carle McLean County Orthopedics work with many different parts of the body, including but not limited to the hand, wrist, elbow, and back. Occupational therapists also help to improve or regain skills that may have been lost after stroke, such as showering, getting dressed, or other activities around the house.

One of the most common concerns when it comes to therapy is the time commitment required. Many people think it will interfere with their daily lives and routines, though this differs from person to person, and there's no one catch-all for the time commitment of therapy. Therapy should be seen as an investment in yourself and your mental and emotional well-being. The professionals at Carle McLean County Orthopedics and Carle Health can work with your busy schedule and cater a treatment plan to your exact needs.

"We use the phrase work smarter, not harder" -Michael Vogel

Carle Health and Carle McLean County Orthopedics work diligently to create a schedule that works for their patients. They understand that your schedule can be tight, so they create efficient and effective plans for patients to still be able to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and accomplish their goals.

Physical therapists use a variety of different techniques, such as exercises, stretches, and massages, to help improve a patient's mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further injury. Physical therapy is beneficial for people of all ages, from children to seniors, with chronic conditions such as arthritis. Physical therapists will often give 'homework' as well to help improve the patient's quality of life and increase recovery speed.

While therapy does require some time and effort, it is important to remember the benefits of therapy are well worth it. Therapy can help individuals improve their mental and emotional health, overcome challenges and obstacles, and lead happier, healthier lives.

"Something a lot of people don't know – if you think you need to see a physical therapist, you can schedule without a physician's script or referral." – Krista Sheppard

Illinois is one of the few states that don't require a referral from a primary physician for therapy. You can simply call Carle McLean County Orthopedics, and they'll get you squared away with an appointment to address your issues.

Krista Sheppard graduated with a Master of Physical Therapy from Northwestern University in 1997. She joined the Carle McLean County Orthopedics team in 2013 and, since then, has cared for patients for just over eight years. Likewise, Michael Vogel has committed himself to providing the best care at Carle McLean County Orthopedics, graduating from Rockhurst University with a bachelors and has served patients at Carle Health for over 17 years.

Want to listen to the full interview between WJBC and Michael Vogel, and Krista Sheppard? Click Below!