The Economic Impact of Physical Therapy: Supporting Individuals and Communities

Physical therapy isn’t just about helping people recover from injuries or rehab after surgery; it’s also a powerful force driving economic growth. When someone has surgery, is injured, or faces chronic health issues, physical therapy steps in not only to heal but also to boost the economy. Let’s explore how physical therapy supports individuals and communities, making a significant impact on our lives and our towns.

At Clear Lake Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (CLPTRS) we contribute to both individual lives and the prosperity of the communities of Amery, Clear Lake, Prairie Farm, and Turtle Lake, as well as the communities surrounding our four clinics. We do this through fueling the economy, reducing long-term healthcare costs, promoting community well-being, and serving student athletes and athletic programs.

One of the essential roles of physical therapy is in the workplace. Imagine if someone hurts their back and can’t work. CLPTRS physical therapists help our patients get better quicker, ensuring employees can return to their jobs faster. When people can work efficiently, businesses do better, leading to more productivity. This increased productivity means more money flowing into the economy, benefiting everyone.

Physical therapy also significantly reduces long-term healthcare costs. By treating issues early on, physical therapists prevent health problems from getting worse. When problems escalate, they often require expensive surgeries or long hospital stays. Our therapists at CLPTRS help stop these issues from becoming major, costly concerns. This not only saves individuals from hefty medical bills, but also reduces the burden on the entire healthcare system.

But physical therapy doesn’t stop at individuals; it positively affects entire communities. With clinics in Amery, Clear Lake, Prairie Farm, and Turtle Lake, we serve these towns and surrounding communities. By focusing on prevention and helping people recover, physical therapy creates healthier neighborhoods. When people in a community are healthier, they don’t need to visit the doctor or the hospital as often. This means medical resources can be used for more critical situations. It also creates a ripple effect – healthier people can work better, take care of their families, and contribute positively to society.

Over the years, we have hosted the annual FastBreak 5k, raising thousands of dollars for Clear Lake High School Athletics. The funds we have raised, while promoting community wellness, have eased the school district’s budget. This has afforded the district more equipment, safety, and transportation that benefit student athletes.

With more than a dozen employees, CLPTRS is proud to create jobs for our community. Skilled physical therapists and support staff live in and around the four towns that are home to our clinics. CLPTRS is part of our local economic engine, driving growth and prosperity.